The Portuguese artist Vhils (Alexandre Farto, 1987) is internationally renowned for his unconventional urban art, where he deliberately destroys surfaces to reveal hidden stories. This exhibition offers an immersive experience, showcasing impressive works made of concrete, wood, metal, and paper, along with videos--including intricate wall carvings from the series Scratching the Surfaces. Additionally, previously unpublished archival materials from Vhils' personal collection will be displayed, sure to delight both enthusiasts and newcomers. Visitors will gain a moving insight into over 20 years of his creative journey, deepening their understanding of his vision for urban art.

Vhils' large-scale works transcend traditional artistic boundaries, exploring themes of identity, memory, and the transformation of urban spaces. Through his subtractive technique, he alters the perception of his surroundings: he etches walls and billboards to uncover hidden layers of life and give a voice to anonymous individuals. For him, art serves as a medium to illuminate the impacts of urbanization and globalization. He views destruction as a creative act that brings the concealed into the light. In addition to his characteristic bas-relief carving technique, he employs stencil painting, metal etching, pyrotechnic explosions, and other unconventional methods.