Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Vhils Print Index
Vista Series #2
Summary
Vista Series #2 (2019) is a framed sculptural work in an edition of 20, signed and numbered. The framed dimensions are 42 by 38 by 10 cm, with an inner recess of 27 by 21 by 6 cm, giving the piece real depth. It presents Vhils's imagery as a three-dimensional, cased object rather than a flat print.
Why It Matters
The Vista Series treats the artwork as a boxed, layered construction, its recessed inner frame creating literal depth that mirrors the excavated quality of Vhils's carved portraits. Classed as sculpture in an edition of 20, #2 offers a dimensional alternative to his prints and reflects his interest in surface, layering and the archaeology of images.
Collector Perspective
At 20 examples, Vista Series #2 is scarce, and its framed, three-dimensional construction makes presentation integral to the work rather than an add-on. The recessed box format requires careful handling and display. Collectors should confirm the signature and number and assess the integrity of the framing, which is part of the piece itself.
Historical Context
Produced in 2019, the Vista Series reflects Vhils moving beyond the picture plane into cased, dimensional objects that emphasise layering and depth. It belongs to a practice founded on carving portraits into walls, where excavation and stratified surfaces are the central language, here rendered in a self-contained framed form.
FAQ
Is this a print or a sculpture?
It is classed as a sculpture, a framed three-dimensional work with a recessed inner frame, not a flat print.
What are the dimensions?
Framed at 42 by 38 by 10 cm, with an inner recess of 27 by 21 by 6 cm.
How large is the edition?
An edition of 20, signed and numbered.
Why does the frame matter?
The recessed box construction is integral to the work, creating the depth central to its design.
About the Artist
Vhils is the working name of Alexandre Farto, a Portuguese visual artist born in 1987 near Lisbon. He is internationally recognized for a pioneering "carving" technique in which he excavates portraits from layered walls, billboards, and surfaces using chisels, drills, and controlled explosives, effectively creating images by removing material rather than adding it. His large-scale murals appear in cities across the globe, and his studio editions translate this bas-relief, destructive-creation aesthetic into prints, laser-cut works, and mixed-media pieces. Vhils has exhibited widely and collaborated on major public and institutional projects.
Collecting Vhils at Gauntlet Gallery
What Vhils works can I collect?
Beyond his walls, Vhils produces signed, numbered studio editions including screenprints, hand-carved paper, laser-cut metal, and mixed-media relief works. Editions that preserve his signature carving texture are especially sought after. Gauntlet Gallery favors pieces in excellent condition with intact surfaces and complete documentation.
How is a Vhils piece authenticated?
We sell Vhils works with documented studio provenance, supported by the edition's signature and numbering. Each piece is photographed exactly as it will ship, including signature, edition number, and any embossing or studio marks, so details are verifiable up front.
What drives value?
Medium and technique (unique carved and relief works over flat prints), edition size, scale, condition, and documented provenance all shape price. Hand-worked, textural, and one-of-a-kind pieces carry the highest premiums.