About the Artist

Mark Allen is the fabricated alter-ego of artist, M.A. Alford. He created this stage character to further the paradoxical nature of his projects. Transforming his image, Mark Allen dyed his hair blond and wears sunglasses at all times. In public, his speech pattern slows, giving simpler and more enigmatic responses. M.A. Alford has always been a mischievous individual, although his motives are anything but vapid. He has been stirring up controversy since high school, when he displayed a sexually-charged installation. Concerned with the alarming rates of teen pregnancy, he filled 60 condoms with helium and tethered the balloon-bouquet to a doll using red ribbon. The sight shocked audiences and was featured on local and national news outlets. The artist has been interrogated by the police multiple times, has illegally exhibited his own work in auction house galleries, and has garned the attention of international news media. His artwork extends the reaches of the white cube and creates a narrative that expands the traditional systems of communication. He has defined this strain of artistic practice as, “Transmedia Gesamtkunstwerk.” His artwork is accessible through various modes of viewing including: news media, the internet, publications, performances, and exhibitions. He plans on continuing his studies and seeks a PhD in studio art, earning the title “DR. MAALFORD.” He continues to spread his tenacious rebel-rousing spirit throughout his hometown of Kansas City and around the world. Hopefully he won't spend the next twenty years of his life behind bars.