Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ahlen began drawing at an early age. By the sixth grade Ahlen displayed writing ability. Ahlen compiled a comic book collection and enjoyed watching sci-fi on TV: including NBC’s Buck Rogers, an early influence.
In high school Ahlen took art courses and played tuba. He was influenced by artists Gauguin, Magritte and Clemente. After graduating Ahlen attended a community college and two art colleges in the Philadelphia Area.
Ahlen’s college years began a decade of artistic and intellectual growth.
Resulting in Ahlen’s creation of the 8008 Universe.
