Renowned sculptor Alma Allen, selected to represent the United States at the upcoming Venice Biennale in 2026, has officially joined the prestigious Galerie Perrotin, a prominent French gallery with locations across major global cities including Paris, New York, and Tokyo.
Born in 1970, Allen has made Tepoztlán, Mexico, his home since 2017, after previously residing in Joshua Tree, California. His artistic journey is characterized by large-scale sculptures crafted from materials such as stone, wood, and bronze. Recently, he has also begun to innovate with a self-built robotic device to further enhance his artistic creations.
Before his collaboration with Perrotin, Allen was represented by Olney Gleason and Mendes Wood DM, both of which ceased their representation following his Biennale selection. Notably, Allen's previous associations included Blum & Poe and Kasmin, both of which closed in the past year.
Rowena Chiu, director at Perrotin's London gallery, expressed admiration for Allen, highlighting his consistent artistic practice and self-made background. She emphasized that his art transcends current political climates, reflecting a universal quality.
Allen's selection for the American Pavilion is noteworthy, given his relatively modest exhibition history. His two significant museum exhibitions include a 2023 showcase at the Museo Anahuacalli in Mexico City and a 2018 display at the Palm Springs Art Museum. His work is represented in the collections of several institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
For the Venice Biennale, Allen plans to unveil seven to eight new artworks alongside earlier pieces that embody "abstract expressions of his personal history." This selection has garnered backing from the American Arts Conservancy, a newly established nonprofit dedicated to supporting the exhibition.
Despite the challenging context surrounding the US Pavilion, particularly due to recent political tensions affecting the arts, Allen remains undeterred. He has described the environment as "difficult" yet invigorating, stating it adds intrigue to his work.
Perrotin has committed to providing logistical and operational support for the US Pavilion, with Allen's inaugural exhibition at the gallery set to take place this fall in Paris. This collaboration not only marks a significant milestone in Allen's career but also sets the stage for a transformative contribution to the art world at one of its most prestigious events.
