Scratching the surface

The current show at the Lazarides gallery on Rathbone Place, W1, is a must see. This month showcases the artist Vhils, aka Alexandre Farto, with his exhibition Scratching the Surface.

This is the Portuguese artist's first solo show in the UK. The show features a series portraits of unknown faces, that are inspired by his native city of Lisbon, at a time of revolution. He turns the outdoor ad spaces into unconventional urban decaying canvases. He uses unusual techniques and materials such as acid and bleach which eat into the surface layers to expose what is underneath.

My favourites are the works of art where he actually scratches amazing portraits directly onto the naked walls. The exhibition runs from 3rd July 2009 to 1st August 2009, so no excuses go and see it. Admission is free.