British artist Andy Dennett, professionally known as Add Subtract, brings together more than twenty years of experience in the music industry with a fascination for celebrity culture and urban street aesthetics. As a result, his artwork reflects the layered visual language of city streets, where torn posters, graffiti, and weathered surfaces tell stories of time, fame, and transformation.

From Music to Visual Art

Add Subtract began his creative career in music. He studied music production and sound engineering at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford.

After graduating, he built a successful career as a DJ, performing at clubs and events across the UK. At the same time, he ran his own record label and promoted emerging artists.

Meanwhile, his interest in visual culture continued to grow. In particular, he became fascinated with rave flyers and posters, whose bold graphics and raw energy later influenced his artistic style.

Artistic Influences

From an early age, Add Subtract was inspired by both pop art and street art. For example, the explosive visuals of Roy Lichtenstein and the iconic imagery of Andy Warhol left a lasting impression.

Later, he discovered pioneering street artists such as Blek Le Rat, Banksy, and Mr Brainwash. Consequently, these influences helped shape his own creative direction.

Urban decay also plays a central role in his work. Peeling paint, layered posters, stickers, tags, and crumbling walls form the visual backdrop for many of his compositions.

As a result, these overlooked details become powerful aesthetic elements within his art.

The “Twisted Icons” Series

In today’s digital world, celebrity culture surrounds us constantly. We see the lives of public figures every day, from their successes to their failures.

Add Subtract explores this phenomenon through his “Twisted Icons” series. However, he focuses only on individuals who have achieved genuine cultural impact or individuality.

Storytelling Through Mixed Media

Working in a contemporary mixed-media collage style, Add Subtract creates richly layered artworks that explore the stories behind cultural icons.

Each piece is carefully researched and thoughtfully constructed. Often, the artworks reference significant moments in the subject’s life.

Furthermore, hidden textures, layered imagery, and symbolic details encourage viewers to look closer. As a result, the artwork reveals new meanings over time.

Consequently, Add Subtract’s work is both visually striking and intellectually engaging, inviting viewers to explore the relationship between fame, identity, and cultural memory.