Vhils x Joana Vasconcelos

Joana Vasconcelos and Vhils are two of the most prominent figures in contemporary Portuguese art, each developing a distinct yet complementary visual language. Joana Vasconcelos, born in 1971 in Paris and raised in Portugal, is internationally recognized for her monumental sculptures and installations. Her work explores themes of identity, femininity, and Portuguese cultural heritage, often incorporating traditional materials and craft techniques, such as ceramics, textiles, and embroidery, into contemporary forms. Her practice bridges popular culture and high art, transforming everyday objects into powerful, large-scale artworks. Vhils (Alexandre Farto), born in 1987, emerged from the urban art scene and is known for his unique technique of carving into surfaces such as walls, wood, and metal to reveal layered portraits. His work addresses themes of memory, urban transformation, and the impact of globalization on identity. Through a process of removal rather than addition, Vhils creates powerful images that reflect the hidden histories embedded within cities. Their collaboration brings together two distinct approaches to material and meaning. While Vasconcelos builds through accumulation and ornament, Vhils works through subtraction and excavation. The dialogue between these methods results in works that merge tradition and contemporary urban language, highlighting a shared interest in identity, heritage, and the transformation of materials. This collaboration reflects a broader conversation within contemporary Portuguese art, where craftsmanship, history, and urban expression intersect, offering collectors a rare opportunity to engage with two major artistic voices within a single work.