Aphantasia Articles
Embark on a journey of self-discovery with these aphantasia articles. From great stories to new science — choose the article topics that interest you. Discover and learn about image-free thinking.
The neurologist who identified aphantasia shows how we construct reality through imagination in his new book. As someone with aphantasia, I, Hollis Robbins, found his insights both validating and illuminating. Blending neuroscience, poetry, and poignant case studies, Zeman shows that imagination—visual or not—is central to human experience. This thoughtful, timely book reveals why our capacity to imagine remains one of humanity’s most defining traits.
What was your reaction when you first discovered others were thinking in pictures while you weren't? This jarring revelation led designer Shane Williams on a 25-year journey exploring cognitive differences. His research shows that studying and embracing how differently we all think opens up new worlds of patience, understanding, and acceptance.
I live without mental imagery—no pictures, no imagined sounds. But my world is rich in emotion, intuition, and presence. I parent, create, and heal by tuning into what I feel, not what I see. It’s a different way of experiencing life—and it’s deeply meaningful in its own quiet, grounded way.
For years, I thought something was wrong with me. While others “pictured” scenes in their minds, I saw nothing. I couldn’t visualize characters or settings, and it left me feeling disconnected—until I learned I had aphantasia.
I used to think of myself as part of the “norm”—someone who wasn’t different. But over time, I began to realize that my dyslexia, my aphantasia, the way I process and express ideas, all pointed to a different kind of mind. Not broken. Not less. Just different. And in embracing that difference, I stopped seeing it as a deficit and started seeing it as a strength. It changed how I teach, how I connect with others, and most importantly, how I see myself.
How aphantasia affects mental health treatment, revealing that while aphantasics don't experience visual flashbacks, they still feel emotions intensely, requiring alternative therapeutic approaches beyond traditional imagery-based techniques.
Have you ever described a cherished memory in vivid detail, even though you can't "see" it in your mind? It raises a fascinating question: could our brains be processing images we just can't consciously access?
As an artist with aphantasia, I create without mental images, relying on conceptual thinking and tactile exploration. My process transforms abstract ideas into tangible works, using recycled materials and collage to bring concepts to life. Without visual preconceptions, I embrace discovery, letting the journey shape my art and reimagining creativity as a dialogue with the world around me.