A fascination with miniatures along with a background in prop making and set design has led Stafford Allpress into sculpture; in particular, miniature scale sculpture. Allpress crafts tiny objects and environments from raw materials with incredible precision.

Among the pieces in platform is a series of works describing nostalgic personal objects, each designed to draw the viewer into an intimate, concentrated little world. These works represent actual environments and objects and are made to an exacting 1:20 scale. But there is something beyond faithful representation in these un-peopled scenes. Collectively, they present us with another theme for contemplation: that of acquisition and possession. We must consider the commodities which enter our lives only to be inevitably destroyed, discarded or lost. These sculptures are affecting in ways beyond narrative function; Allpress’ scenes are somewhere between theatrical and archaeological, whilst remaining peculiarly personal. 

Stafford Allpress was selected as a finalist in the Anthony Harper Art Award at Coca in Christchurch earlier this year. He is currently a finalist in the Trust Waikato National Contemporary Art Award and the 18^th Annual Wallace Art Awards 2009, with winners announced on the 4^th and 7^th of September respectively. Allpress is based in Geraldine in South Canterbury.