Artwork by Dawn Rossbach
Aug 4 - Sept 19, 2026
Reception: Sat, Sept 12, 1-3 PM
The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center is pleased to present The Blind Mind, a solo exhibition by Minnesota artist Dawn Rossbach, on view August 4 through September 19, 2026. A special artist reception will take place on Saturday, September 12, from 1-3 PM. Free to attend and open to all!
About the Exhibition
Developed through a Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individuals Grant, The Blind Mind explores Rossbach's creative process as an artist with aphantasia—a neurological condition often described as "image-free thinking," in which a person is unable to voluntarily visualize images in their mind. Affecting an estimated 3–4% of the population, aphantasia is still relatively unknown, particularly within the arts.
The exhibition features more than 30 original works that investigate memory, observation, and artistic creation. Through paintings, diptychs, and a series Rossbach calls "memory apparitions," viewers are invited into an artistic process that unfolds without mental imagery. Rather than relying on visualization, Rossbach's work reveals how memory, experience, and careful observation can produce deeply expressive and compelling works of art.
Beyond sharing her artwork, The Blind Mind aims to spark conversation and increase awareness about aphantasia, particularly among educators, therapists, artists, and anyone interested in the many ways people experience the world and learn. The exhibition encourages visitors to reconsider assumptions about creativity while celebrating the remarkable diversity of human thought.
Artist Reception
The public is invited to meet Dawn Rossbach during a free Artist Reception on Saturday, September 12, from 1–3 PM at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the inspiration behind the exhibition, visit with the artist, and enjoy light refreshments.
Visit the Gallery
📍 Location: New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, New York Mills, MN
📅 Exhibition Dates: August 4 - September 19, 2026
Please note: Construction on the front façade is underway as part of our capital campaign. The Gallery and Gift Store will remain open during regular business hours throughout construction. Please use the back entrance, which includes an accessible ramp.
Gallery Hours:
- Tuesday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Wednesday: 10 am – 7 pm
- Thursday: 10 am – 7 pm
- Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
- Saturday: 10 am – 3 pm
Closed Sundays & Mondays; contact info@kulcher.org for private tours at other times.
The NYMRCC Gallery is always free to visit and open to all, thanks to the generous support of members and donors.
For more information, visit www.kulcher.org or contact Megan Shirley-Ross, Artistic Director, at 218-385-3339 or megan@kulcher.org.
Questions? Call the Cultural Center at 218-385-3339 or email info@kulcher.org.
This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
