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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.

Afghanistan's music school falls silent, its future uncertain under the Taliban

Afghanistan's music school falls silent, its future uncertain under the Taliban

The Afghanistan National Institute of Music was a thriving school in Kabul. But the last time the Taliban was in control of the country, all music-related activities were strictly forbidden.
by Elizabeth Blair

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Your laughing muscles will get a workout in this sporty romance

Your laughing muscles will get a workout in this sporty romance

A personal trainer takes on an injured former NFL star trying to make a secret comeback in Farrah Rochon's “The Dating Playbook.” Will they have to fake-date to hide what's really going on? You bet!
by Denny S. Bryce

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In this strong sequel, taking the throne is easy — keeping it, not so much

In this strong sequel, taking the throne is easy — keeping it, not so much

Jordan Ifueko follows up her meteoric debut “Raybearer” with “Redemptor,” which continues the story of Tarisai, now an Empress, but racked with grief and guilt over what she did to gain the throne.
by Danny Lore

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This surprising debut takes readers to a crossroads of empires and cultures

This surprising debut takes readers to a crossroads of empires and cultures

Vinod Busjeet, like his main character, is descended from the Indian workers brought to Mauritius by French and English colonizers. His debut, “Silent Winds, Dry Seas,” reflects that critical history.
by Jenny Bhatt

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Art Hounds recommend a show on the future without honeybees, touring farms and parks

Art Hounds recommend a show on the future without honeybees, touring farms and parks

Plus, the Duluth Superior Film Festival highlights diverse Minnesota filmmakers, and the “Creature Comforts” exhibit at Fresh Eye Gallery offers an encouraging space in stressful times.
by Emily Bright

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St. John's Abbey Church gets a pipe organ worthy of its space

St. John's Abbey Church gets a pipe organ worthy of its space

For half a century, the St. John’s Abbey Church in Collegeville in central Minnesota has attracted visitors from around the world. Now, after a huge expansion of its pipe organ, enthusiasts say it finally has an instrument to match its modernist splendor.
by Will Matuska

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This book introduces you to the people doing your 'Dirty Work'

This book introduces you to the people doing your 'Dirty Work'

Author Eyal Press calls them "jobs of last resort" — slaughtering animals, working in prisons, engaging in remote drone combat. Society needs them but doesn't want to talk about them.
by Dave Davies

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