Vhils (born 1987) is the tag name of Portuguese graffiti and street artist Alexandre Manuel Dias Farto. Alexandre Farto (born January 1987), known professionally as Vhils, is a Portuguese visual artist and urban interventionist celebrated for his groundbreaking techniques in public art. Renowned for his innovative "destructive construction" methods, Vhils carves portraits into walls and urban surfaces, exploring themes of identity, globalization, and collective memory. His works have been exhibited globally, cementing his position as one of the leading figures in contemporary urban art.

Early life and education

Vhils was born in Seixal, Portugal, in 1987 and grew up in Lisbon's suburban sprawl during a time of cultural and urban transition. Inspired by graffiti and hip-hop culture, he began tagging walls at the age of 13 under the pseudonym "Vhils." He studied at the at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London. His dual exposure to Portugal’s evolving urban landscape and London’s vibrant street art scene greatly influenced his artistic direction.

Artistic style and techniques

Vhils pioneered a subtractive art process, creating works by removing material from surfaces rather than adding to them. His techniques include: This approach highlights the erosion and layering of urban environments, symbolizing hidden histories and personal stories embedded in cityscapes.

Themes and philosophy

Vhils explores the intersections of urbanization, identity, and memory. His works address the human impact of globalization and modern development while celebrating the resilience of personal and collective histories. Recurring themes in his art include:

Major works and projects

Public art

Gallery works

Exhibitions

Vhils’ works have been exhibited at renowned institutions, including:

Awards and recognition

Publications and media

Legacy

Vhils has revolutionized urban art, transforming destruction into creation and humanizing the cityscape. Through projects like Underdogs Gallery and Festival Iminente, he has fostered a vibrant dialogue between urban spaces and the global art community. His innovative techniques and cultural sensitivity have cemented his role as a transformative figure in contemporary art.