An art professor at the University of Toledo, Dan Hernandez, is set to embark on a unique journey into the realm of digital art. As the 2025 Community Digital Artist in Residence for the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA), Hernandez will delve into the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) through TMA Labs, an initiative focused on digital arts. This collaboration aims to merge traditional artistic techniques with modern digital tools, enabling Hernandez to explore new frontiers within the digital marketplace. During his residency, he will collaborate with Emily Xie, a renowned NYC-based artist specializing in code and computation, to produce innovative digital artworks that will be showcased in an exhibition at TMA in September.

Hernandez's Journey Into the Digital World

In the heart of Ohio, within the vibrant cultural landscape of Toledo, lies the Frank O. Gehry-designed Center for the Visual Arts, home to the University of Toledo’s Department of Art. Here, Professor Dan Hernandez has long been fascinated by the visual language of digital art, drawing inspiration from video games to create award-winning works. Now, under the auspices of the Toledo Museum of Art’s Community Digital Artist Residency Program, Hernandez will immerse himself in the burgeoning field of NFTs. Over the course of nearly a year, he will work alongside Emily Xie, whose expertise in computational art promises to elevate their joint projects. Their creations, ranging from downloadable textures to one-of-a-kind digital pieces, will culminate in a high-profile auction through Christie’s, showcasing the intersection of art and technology.

This endeavor not only highlights the close ties between the University of Toledo and the Toledo Museum of Art but also underscores the growing importance of digital media in contemporary art practices. The proximity of the university's facilities to TMA reflects this partnership, which previously yielded successful collaborations like the digital medallion project in 2024.

The Toledo Museum of Art initiated its Digital Artist in Residence Program in 2023, fostering innovation and bridging the gap between traditional and digital art forms.

From a journalist's perspective, Hernandez's residency exemplifies the evolving nature of art in the digital age. It invites us to reconsider how we define and value creativity in an increasingly tech-driven world. By merging conventional artistic skills with cutting-edge technology, Hernandez and Xie demonstrate the limitless possibilities of digital expression, encouraging both creators and audiences to embrace this exciting new frontier. This collaboration not only enriches the local art scene but also sets a precedent for future explorations in digital artistry.