Allen grew up in Fresno, California, but now resides in Austin, Texas. Fresno and Texas ― particularly Lubbock where his father is from ― have strong influences on Allen's art. He has been inspired by tumbleweeds, and tire treads. Empire consists of bronzed objects most of which evoke the feel of Americana: stars, stripes, lone ranger's mask. Other objects are a reflection of Allen's environment: tire treads, and taxidermy rattlesnakes. Allen has an impressive artistic pedigree and works in many different media: painting, drawing, wood work, bronze, ceramics, photography, film, writing, acting, drums, and singing. His parents are visual artist and songwriter Terry Allen, and actress Jo Harvey Allen. Michael Solway is formerly of the Solway Jones Gallery, in Los Angeles' Chinatown Arts District, with partner Angela H. Jones. He is now the Director of his father, Carl Solway's gallery in Cincinnati, Ohio.