Foley Gallery is pleased to announce the New York debut of Minnesota photographer Thomas Allen. Inspired by a View-Master and “pop-up” books as a child, Allen became interested in recreating these three-dimensional experiences by using old books and pulp fiction paperbacks as still life subjects.

These beautiful volumes with scarred and wrinkled covers, discolored pages and fragile spines are not seen as precious commodities that should be stored on a shelf, but a voluminous inventory of actors and scenes just waiting for direction.

Allen gently cuts around the shape of his figures, physically releasing them from their two dimensional surface. They are brought to life from their pages and covers with detailed lighting and a thin focus. Pulled and positioned, their intended drama comes to life.

Gallery’s artist page.