Wick Allison, In His Element: A Portrait for AIA Columns

Photographing Wick Allison was about more than capturing a likeness—it was about honoring a presence. As the longtime publisher of D Magazine and a vocal advocate for Dallas urbanism and architecture, Allison was a man whose ideas helped shape the city. This portrait, commissioned by AIA Dallas Columns, was created to reflect that depth.

Set against a clean, modern staircase, the composition uses architectural lines to frame Allison in a moment of casual confidence. His stance—hands in pockets, eyes looking beyond the frame—evokes a mind always at work. There’s restraint in the palette and simplicity in the setting, allowing his presence to speak for itself.

This portrait isn’t flashy. It’s thoughtful. Much like Allison’s legacy: bold, grounded, and focused on what really matters. A fitting tribute to someone who believed in the power of place and the stories we tell about it.