an immersive gallery about mental health
U are the Universe (Eres El Universo) is a bilingual art exhibition created by Mexican artist, Rocky Casillas Aguirre that aims to break the silence on mental health. The gallery features over 70 original art pieces that touch on everything from modern anxiety triggers and the science of stress, to ancient mindfulness practices known to help with self-awakening and emotional healing.
The gallery is designed for all ages with many of the pieces being interactive, including: several 6ft cardboard cutouts of “feelings characters,” to take selfies with, a medicine cabinet filled with prescription bottles from Dr. Lola the Axolotl, and entertaining animated cartoons projected on a wall. Kids visiting the gallery will also be able to take home free coloring pages.
“As someone who has suffered from debilitating anxiety and panic attacks, and witnessed loved ones battle with depression, this gallery means everything to me. Through my pieces, I share years of personal struggle and learnings. My greatest hope is that everyone who sees my work finds comfort in my characters, feels validated and a little less alone in this world. It’s time we talk about mental health.” - Rocky
This is Rocky’s first solo exhibition debuting at the Northfield Arts Guild from June 17-July 26, 2025 in the Main Gallery. The exhibition will also be shown at Mercado Local in Northfield from Sep 27 to Oct 18, 2025, and at the Paradise Center for the Arts in Faribault from April 13 to June 13, 2026 in the Carlander Family Gallery.
RSVP
U are the Universe Gallery Open House will be held at the Northfield Arts Guild (304 Division St. S) on Thurs, June 19 from 6-8pm. This is a free event for all ages. We are asking folks to RSVP for space and food logistics.
BEHIND THE SCENES
This activity was made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Southern Minnesota Arts Council (SEMAC) thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.