Rik Allen

These works have been in the form of space craft, rockets, and scientific apparatus. In this way, art and technology share a symbiotic grace. Most of the current work is made primarily of glass and metal, which expresses a paradoxical symbiosis. The relationship between the rigid strength of metal with glass and the apparent fragility creates an alluring tension. On the surface, these are interplanetary vessels--literally, transportive and technologically designed to explore the rugged desolation of outer space. Vehicles that have a rough, worn exterior suggest use, imperfection, and history. These crafts contain elements bundled within their transparent bulkheads: the center of these vessels is an exposed nucleus, or core, that may be seen to represent the incarnation of energy while representing both outer and inner spheres of exploration and curiosity.