Lou Benesch's 'The Magician's Room' Transforms Vintage Boards into Surreal Tarot-Inspired Worlds

Paris-based artist Lou Benesch presents 'The Magician's Room,' a solo exhibition at Hashimoto Contemporary in San Francisco, on view through August 22. The show draws from the tarot's Magician card, a trickster-wizard figure associated with action and mysticism. Benesch translates this symbolism into a collection of mixed-media works on found and antique materials, including vintage board games, chalkboards, and antique paper. The pieces feature hybrid creatures, headless birds, and otherworldly scenes, blending past and present, spiritual and physical realms. Notable works include 'The Magician's Room' (2026), 'Distant Chaos' (2026), 'Spirit Compass' (2026), 'Flowers' (2026), and 'Awake II' (2026). The exhibition is part of Benesch's ongoing exploration of mythological and fantastical themes.