Vhils & Shepard Fairey

Alexandre Farto, known professionally as Vhils, is a Portuguese street artist famous for his innovative use of destructive techniques to create art. Born in 1987, Vhils has gained international renown for his revolutionary “scraping” technique, in which he carves, drills, and chisels into walls, revealing the underlying layers. His work often explores themes of urban decay, identity, and the impact of globalization on local communities, transforming forgotten faces and stories into powerful works of public art. His distinctive approach has led to collaborations with major brands and exhibitions in prestigious galleries and museums around the world, cementing his position as a leading voice in contemporary urban art. Shepard Fairey, born in 1970, is an American contemporary artist, activist, and founder of OBEY Clothing. He emerged from the skateboarding scene and first gained recognition for his “Andre the Giant Has a Posse” sticker campaign, which evolved into the “Obey Giant” series. Fairey’s work is deeply rooted in graphic design, propaganda, and political commentary, often employing bold, iconic imagery and limited color palettes. His “Hope” poster for Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign has become a globally recognized symbol. Fairey’s art critiques power structures, consumerism, and environmental issues, consistently engaging with social and political discourse, making him one of the most influential and recognizable street artists of his generation.