Michael Tonder: Art to inspire conversation about suicide

'Will the Circle Be Unbroken'
Michael Tonder's piece "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" is among those included in the "What's Left: Lives Touched by Suicide" exhibit in Grand Rapids, Minn.
Courtesy of Michael Tonder

Suicide is often a tough topic to talk about openly.

But for those who've been touched by a family member or friend taking their own life, coming together in conversation can provide comfort and relief.

An art exhibit opening tonight in Grand Rapids — "What's Left: Lives Touched by Suicide" — aims to start that conversation. It features the work of Two Harbors artist Michael Tonder, whose son Aaron took his own life in 1999.

MPR News host Cathy Wurzer spoke with Tonder.

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