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The Weisman is the only museum in the Upper Midwest to display this exhibit, which is not a concern to fans living far from the Twin Cities.

“Because of the strong interest in Dylan among music listeners of many generations and because of the singer’s Minnesota youth, the exhibition will draw visitors from throughout the region,” according to www.weisman.umn.edu.

The Weisman might be onto something with that claim. There has been a strong appreciation for the exhibit, as there has been a steady stream of patrons during its run. Devoted fans are traveling from around the Midwest to learn more about this widely respected and influential musician’s early career from 1956-1966.

Walking into the exhibit, patrons are immediately greeted by an open guitar case that is conveniently and cleverly placed to take donations. The high walls display images that tell the story of Bob Dylan’s life.

The exhibition is about more than just Dylan’s music. It is about his path to fame, with a detailed timeline of his early years in Minnesota.

Born to parents Abe and Beatty on May 24, 1941 in Duluth, he lived a typical life, moving to Hibbing in 1947.

Growing up on the Iron Range (specifically, Hibbing), Dylan was largely influenced by movies he saw at his uncle’s chain of movie theaters. Marlon Brando and James Dean inspired him at an early age.

Dylan enrolled at the U of M in 1959, though his stay there was brief. He changed his name to Bob Dylan while in school there, and was attracted to the bohemian lifestyle. He spent more time playing music at bars and apartments in Dinkytown than actually attending class. His stay at the U ended in 1960, but his monumental career began shortly thereafter.

Dylan’s career blew up after school. He was everywhere. But perhaps most memorable is his participation at the March on Washington in August of 1963 with musicians Joan Baez, Odetta, Josh White, and Peter, Paul and Mary. They sang what is often considered the most popular rendition of Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind.”

He has created 44 recorded albums, numerous literary works including Tarantula, a book of absurd poetry, and a handful of films.

The exhibit itself is host to over 150 artifacts, each on display and numbered with a guitar pick stamped with a number. There are guitars, albums, posters, paintings by Dylan, handwritten works, photographs, and newspaper clippings featured.

There are also booths with TVs playing segments about Dylan’s life. And, of course there are spots in the exhibit for listening to music.

The Exhibition runs from Feb. 3-April 29. Hours at the Weisman are: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and is closed on Mondays. For more information, visit: www.Weisman.umn.edu.