Anne Labovitz’s Illuminating Art Transforms Downtown Rochester

Downtown Rochester, MN just got a little bit brighter.

If and when you’re in Rochester, be sure to check out the latest installation by world-renowned Minnesota visual artist Anne Labovitz. Her exhibit, “Will to Meaning,” which was a hit at the Rochester Art Center, is now making a stunning comeback in a new spot.

You can now see selected pieces from the work displayed in six light boxes along the art plaza on the east side of Parking Ramp 6 in downtown Rochester.

Since the exhibit at the Art Center wrapped up, they decided to give it a fresh twist by showcasing parts of the collection in these light boxes. The pieces, painted on Tyvek (a semi-see-through material), are perfect for this setting. They fit just right and look amazing when lit up.

Anne Labovitz explains, “I created these works with light in mind. They symbolize health, using brightness as a metaphor against darkness. When illuminated, you can see the layers of paint on both sides of the Tyvek, which gives them a whole new dimension.”

Get our free mobile app

Labovitz has strong connections to Rochester too. She was a plenary speaker at the Mayo Clinic’s 2023 Conference on Brain Health and Dementia and has works in their permanent collection.

This display at Ramp 6 is her first outdoor installation, adding another feather to her cap.

“I love Rochester and the Rochester Art Center. I’ve made many friends here, and the river and downtown area are so vibrant and welcoming,” Labovitz says.

You can find the Art Plaza along 1st Avenue SW between Center Street and 1st Street SE. The display is set to stay up until 2026, so there’s plenty of time to experience it.

LOOK: Two Minnesota Cities Now Ranked Top Recreation Spots Nationwide

Labovitz also recently finished installing her "North Shore Blue" exhibit inside the Holiday Center Atrium in downtown Duluth at the end of May.

According to an article from Ken Hayes with B105 Country, "Labovitz's "North Shore Blue" uses color, scale, movement, and light to suggest the vastness of Lake Superior and the unique nature of the North Shore, inviting the observer to reflect upon their own connection with the majestic body of water."

Another prominent spot in Minnesota where you might have encountered Labovitz's art is at the MSP Airport, showcased inside Terminals 1 and 2.