Ding ding! Portuguese artist transforms Hong Kong tram into ‘Debris’ for a moving art experience

Portuguese artist Alexandre Farto aka Vhils has transformed a tram into a moving art object by carving portraits of Hong Kong people into layers of posters applied to the vehicle’s facade.

Vhils, 29, who opened a studio in Hong Kong in September, is getting ready for his first solo exhibition in the city, “Debris”, which will be opened from March 22 to April 4 on the rooftop of Central Pier 4.

But since yesterday Hongkongers can admire the work of one of the most renowned contemporary urban artists without going to a gallery.

Watch: Portuguese street artist Vhils blasts Hong Kong with "debris"

“It’s the perfect platform for me, because it’s a piece that’s in the city that also moves and reaches people who probably would never go to a gallery or a museum,” he said. “I believe public art can give to the city something important, especially in current times,” said Vhils, whose work aims to spark reflection on the impact of development and urbanisation around the world.

It took Vhils about two full days to bring the tram, currently running between Whitty Street depot and North Point, to life.