United States of America

Alma Allen’s abstract biomorphic sculptures are inspired by the expansive landscapes and natural geological formations of the Americas. Using materials sourced from these lands, Allen has created a corpus of work that highlights the alchemical transformation of matter: the strata of rough rock appear smoothed through the passage of time, and solid bronze occurs as liquid. Call Me the Breeze explores the concept of elevation, both as a physical manifestation of form and as a symbol of collective optimism and self-realisation.

The process combines preindustrial carving and hand-shaping methods with advanced technology, such as robotic sculpting. With a commitment to material authenticity, he uses local materials, including American walnut burl; Cantera verde volcanic rock; and white Colorado Yule marble, a luminous stone used to construct several of our nation’s historic monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the United States Pavilion champions allocentric art that favours deep time and encourages remembrance. Allen’s practice provides the ground for the Allocene: a proposal for art that embodies a state of alterity, weightlessness, and freedom of thought.