James Allen, a renowned artist and production designer, was born in 1950 in Los Angeles, California. However, his early childhood was spent in New Ulm, Germany, where he was exposed to a unique cultural environment that would later influence his artistic style.
After completing his Master of Fine Arts degree in Fine Art and Film History at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA),Allen embarked on a successful career in the field of New Realism, a movement that emphasized the representation of everyday life in art.
Notably, his work caught the attention of renowned singer Dianna Ross, who purchased one of his paintings. Additionally, his desert paintings were acquired by Security Pacific Bank, further solidifying his reputation as a talented artist.
Allen's career in the film industry began in 1978 when he joined Universal Studios as a staff Art Director, a position he held until 1986. Following this, he transitioned to a freelance production designer, a role he occupied for the next 30 years.
Throughout his career, Allen specialized in designing back lots, storyboards, and visual effects for films and television productions. His impressive client list included RSAUSA, Industrial Light and Magic, and numerous Japanese clients. He was also fortunate to be mentored by two highly respected art directors in the industry, Joseph Hurley, who worked on Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho, and Fernando Scarfiotti, who collaborated on Scarface.
Allen is particularly renowned for his work on period productions that require large-scale back lot design and alteration. Some of his most notable projects include recreating New York City in 1870 for the construction of the Statue of Liberty, Chicago in 1930 for the Dillinger film, and ancient cities such as Athens, Sparta, and Troy for the epic film Helen of Troy.
In addition to his work in the film industry, Allen is also the executive producer of his documentary company, ART TV USA.
