"Facets of Unity III" 2022

Facets of Unity III (2022) is a one-of-a-kind ambient wall work by New Zealand artist John Allen. At 680 mm across, it is a piece that holds something rare: the feelings of floating and oneness.

The effect is created by the interplay of several elements working quietly together. The central diamond of poplar sits over a cloud-like painted surface — soft, open, atmospheric. The LED light source tucked under the outer frame directs its glow from the edges and pools in the centre, giving the poplar a weightless quality. The result is a piece that seems to hover — peaceful, effortless, and still.

The title, Facets of Unity, drawn from a book of the same name, speaks to an idea that runs through all of John Allen’s work: that we are each a facet of an enormous living diamond. Unique, individual, distinct in our angle and our light. And yet utterly part of the whole — not alone, not separate, but alive precisely by virtue of our oneness with life.

The kauri pieces that make up the outer frame of this work enact that idea directly: each piece of reclaimed timber is different, each holds its own character, and together they form a circle — enclosing, encircling, making whole.

The kauri is reclaimed from an old Auckland villa once owned by the artist — timber that has already lived one life and now lives another. The poplar is from a fallen tree, repurposed and shaped. Copper staples hold the composition together, their warm metal tone adding a quiet luminosity of their own.

Facets of Unity III is an original artwork of rare atmosphere and depth — a piece that brings a feeling of peace, lightness, and oneness to any room it inhabits.

Specifications:

• Title: Facets of Unity III (2022)
• Artist: John Allen
• Materials: Recycled NZ kauri (Auckland villa), poplar, copper staples, paint, LED light
• Dimensions: 680 mm diameter
• Lighting: Integrated LED — plug-in, outer rim directed inward
• Year: 2022
• Care: Indoor display recommended