ARTURb 2025 > Co-curator > Add Fuel (PT)
Add Fuel is the artistic name of Portuguese contemporary artist Diogo Machado. Celebrated for his innovative approach to traditional art forms, he is known for his elaborate patterns, bold reinterpretations and meticulous attention to detail – designing multi-layered compositions that combine the timeless elegance of cultural heritage with a contemporary visual language.
Born in Cascais, Portugal, his artistic career began at an early age with a fascination for drawing and a passion for creating imaginary worlds. Influenced by the aesthetics of skate culture, punk rock, graffiti, video games and cartoons, his art reflects the dynamic energy of urban life, while also proposing new and avant-garde perspectives on cultural identity.
In 2008, attracted by the geometry, rhythm and cultural richness of Portuguese tiles, he began exploring and reinventing this centuries-old art. His tile-inspired works harmoniously combine traditional decorative elements with a distinctly contemporary sensibility, creating visually engaging and conceptually profound compositions.
Through techniques such as symmetrical repetition, trompe-l’oeil and layered patterns, he invites the public to discover hidden narratives and reflect on what lies beyond the surface of his meticulous drawings.
Working with a variety of media – from small tile panels to monumental murals, custom ceramic installations, sculptures and limited editions – Add Fuel has been redefining the tile as a medium for cultural exploration and dialogue.
His public art interventions are spread across several cities in Portugal, France, the United States, Canada, Belgium, Australia, Italy and Tunisia, among many other places around the world. These interventions always reflect his commitment to connecting communities with their cultural heritage, transforming urban spaces into dynamic territories for interaction and reflection.
Add Fuel has presented his work in solo and group exhibitions at prestigious institutions, including the Petit Palais and Galerie Itinerrance in Paris, StolenSpace Gallery and Saatchi Gallery in London, Wynwood Walls and Fabien Castanier Gallery in Miami, Subliminal Projects in Los Angeles, as well as the Museu Nacional do Azulejo and Underdogs Gallery in Lisbon.
His exhibitions celebrate the complex layers and multifaceted narratives of his work, inviting the public to explore and experience both its aesthetic beauty and its cultural resonance.
Links: website | instagram | facebook
Financed by: Ministério da Cultura, Juventude e Desporto / Direção-Geral das Artes, ALGARVE2030 e Município de Lagos
Sponsors and Media Partners: Barlavento, CIN, Correio de Lagos, Street Art Cities, Tapumarte, Marina de Lagos
