Thomas Allen’s paper cutouts bring scenes to life through meticulous incisions and methodical folding of aged books and color swatches. The artist, who has adored pop-up books and shoebox dioramas since childhood, channels his passion for creating “manufactured realities” into his work. “The vintage paperback work happened by complete accident,” Allen explains. “One afternoon, I was cutting into a pulp novel intending to remove the illustration entirely. However, I noticed that by leaving some areas attached and carefully folding them, I could create the illusion of 3D pop-ups when viewed from a single vantage point. Everything took off from there.”
Through meticulous planning and careful execution, Allen lifts fictional characters off the pages of books, magazines, and more – creating new, “manufactured” realities.
Working and living in Coloma Michigan, Allen begins his process by photocopying the pages he plans to use, allowing him to make test cutouts of potential compositions before committing to the final piece. He then photographs each version, paying close attention to light and angle.
A career artist and freelance illustrator, Allen holds a BFA from Wayne State University and an MFA from the University of Minnesota. Represented by Foley Gallery in New York, his work has been exhibited and published both nationally and internationally. His pieces are part of permanent collections at institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, The Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. He has also created editorial illustrations for over 50 publications worldwide, including The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, and National Geographic.
In addition to his art, Allen serves as a township clerk and public lecturer, having taught photography courses and workshops at various institutions including the University of Minnesota and the Los Angeles Center of Photography. He is also anticipating an upcoming collaboration with Joseph Bellows Gallery. For more of his work and updates, visit his website and follow him on Instagram.
