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Arts and Culture

MPR News has you covered with news and stories about local art and culture happenings across Minnesota.

Art Hounds: Art Hounds are members of the Minnesota arts community who look beyond their own work to highlight what's exciting in local art. You can explore arts events here, or become an Art Hound today.

Art Reviews: Our arts team offers insight on the latest in theater, music, visual arts and more. We explore the breadth of creativity and innovation found throughout Minnesota, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the works and artists shaping our cultural landscape. Read more here.

Art Friend: Everyone needs an art friend. Art Friend is a new segment with our arts team. Art spaces can feel exclusive and art can be confusing, obtuse, and even boring. But, especially with the right context, everyone can be a critic. So let us be your guide- your Art Friend. Listen or read Art Friend stories here.

Our arts coverage is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment's Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

These 70 violins tell the stories of Holocaust survivors, now they’re touring Minnesota

These 70 violins tell the stories of Holocaust survivors, now they’re touring Minnesota

For decades, an Israel-based father-son team have been recovering and repairing violins played by Jewish musicians that survived the Holocaust. Through June, those violins are touring the state. Local musicians will play the instruments and many are on view for exhibitions.
by Alex V. Cipolle

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It’s blockbuster book season: Here are 12 new titles coming in May

It’s blockbuster book season: Here are 12 new titles coming in May

Summer blockbuster season has begun — on the big screen and in bookstores. This month brings new titles from Douglas Stuart, Kathryn Stockett, Ali Smith, David Sedaris and many more.
by Colin Dwyer

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Family matters when it comes to books

Family matters when it comes to books

Our theme this week is all about family: novelists who mine their own histories for inspiration, authors who use storytelling as a kind of open therapy, writers who uncover and then share their family secrets.
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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Art Hounds: City Mouse, gravediggers and songs about food

Art Hounds: City Mouse, gravediggers and songs about food

Art Hounds recommend monthly concerts from WideSpot Performing Arts Center, Teatro del Pueblo's “Los Profanadores de La Calle Arenas” and Caritas Vocal Ensemble.
by Emily Bright

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Minnesota's enduring influence on 'Twin Peaks,' 35 years later

Minnesota's enduring influence on 'Twin Peaks,' 35 years later

“Twin Peaks” went off the air 35 years ago. Though the fictional town was set in Washington state, Minnesota had a lasting impact on the series.
by Gretchen Brown

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3 spring novels star trad wives, grown-up boy band fans, and a pregnant septuagenarian

3 spring novels star trad wives, grown-up boy band fans, and a pregnant septuagenarian

Looking for a read that's complicated, gutsy and entertaining? Maureen Corrigan recommends “Yesteryear,” by Caro Claire Burke; “American Fantasy,” by Emma Straub; and “Enormous Wings,” by Laurie Frankel.
by Maureen Corrigan

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Investing in the arts pays off in southwest Minnesota

Investing in the arts pays off in southwest Minnesota

Small Minnesota towns are seeing big returns on their investments into the arts. This story on arts in southwest Minnesota is the first part in an MPR News series on how art shapes rural economies.
by Alex V. Cipolle

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