Elías Hernández summons myth-building through a “Clock Wizard.” Across painting, ceramics, and drawing, he envisions a layered fantasy dreamscape for this wizard to transform and terrify other creatures. None are static. The wizard and magical citizens are ever-moving: their bodies wave, bend, and stretch like the whimsy of a fable or possibility of a cartoon. The ceramics and sculptural work recall the “equipable items” and gems of video games. The artistry of Hernández bridges contemporary illustration with the past: calling upon magic and monsters for a new, playable era.
In Wizard Hours, Hernández' work not only explores the fantastical realms of his imagination but also delves into the relationship between nostalgia and innovation. By blending familiar references from his childhood—like the epic narratives of RPGs and the visual language of animated series—with his own distinct style, he challenges the viewer to reconsider the boundaries between reality and the digital worlds that have shaped modern storytelling. His pieces invite us to interact with the characters and settings on a deeper level, blurring the line between observer and participant, or player character and NPC. Through his whimsical yet intricate creations, Hernández taps into the universal desire for escapism while exploring the notion of transformation.
Curated by Dakota Noot, Acting Director, Frank M. Doyle Arts Pavilion
About the artist:
Elías Hernández is a USC Roski MFA candidate (‘25). He received his BA in Arts from UCLA (‘20) and a minor in Arts Education. His work has been featured in group exhibits at Moth Belly Gallery, Trophy Room LA, and Soft Times; in addition to New American Paintings (Pacific Coast, Issue #163).
Follow Elías Hernández: Website | Instagram
Exhibition runs: Feb. 1 - Mar. 30, 2025
Reception: Saturday, Feb. 1, 1 - 3 p.m.
Campus reception: Thursday, Feb. 6, 4 - 7 p.m.
Concurent exhibtion: What’s My Thesis group exhibit
- Covered in "Elias Hernandez’s art collection “Wizard Hours” delves into the importance of inspiration." Written by
