Dean Stockton (DFace): A British Street Art Icon
Dean Stockton, better known by his alias DFace, is a British street artist who creates using spray paint, stickers, posters, and stencils. Growing up in London as a skateboarding teenager, he developed an early interest in graffiti and drawing. Alongside a long career as a freelance illustrator and designer, DFace honed his craft on the streets, building a style uniquely his own.
His work draws inspiration from Shepard Fairey, Jim Phillips, hip-hop, punk music, and animated films. In 2006, DFace held his first major solo exhibition, Death & Glory, at Stolenspace Gallery in London. He later realized a dream by founding and curating the Outside Institute, London’s first contemporary art gallery dedicated to street art. Unfortunately, the gallery is no longer operational.
DFace's art explores themes of love, death, oddity, sexuality, fear, frustration, and pain, blending vibrant pop-art aesthetics with a dark, reflective edge that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Dean Stockton (DFace): A Pioneer of Contemporary Street Art
Dean Stockton, better known as DFace, is a highly influential British street artist whose work bridges the gap between traditional graffiti and contemporary art. Renowned for his bold, pop-art-inspired style, his art often delves into themes of love, death, consumerism, frustration, and the darker side of modern life.
Early Life and Influences
Born and raised in London, DFace grew up as a skateboarding teenager with a passion for graffiti, drawing, and visual art. Early influences included artists like Shepard Fairey, Jim Phillips, and elements of hip-hop culture, punk music, and animated films. This mix of inspiration laid the foundation for his distinctive style, combining bright, comic-like visuals with a satirical edge.
Through his art, exhibitions, and community contributions, DFace has played a pivotal role in bringing street art into the mainstream. He continues to influence a new generation of artists with his fearless creativity and commitment to challenging societal norms.
DFace's characters combine contemporary comic and animation techniques, often featuring iconic horns/ears that have become his "trademark" over the years. In the early days, these were stickers with helmeted heads featuring the same horns/ears, and as his graphic language evolved, human characters appeared carrying those same horns from his beginnings. Today, DFace operates in many cities around the world, and his works can be found in locations such as London, Los Angeles, Miami, Amsterdam, Tokyo, Berlin, New York, and more.
The visual branding at Artotel London Hoxton
The following images showcase the visual branding implemented at Artotel London Hoxton, blending contemporary street art influences with a modern hotel aesthetic. This innovative approach reflects the dynamic urban culture of London while maintaining a sophisticated, welcoming atmosphere.
