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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.

Ask a Bookseller: A readable book on economic theory

Ask a Bookseller: A readable book on economic theory

Richard Malinchoc-DeVoe of Fair Trade Books in Redwing, Minn., has a recommendation for nonfiction readers looking to learn something new this summer. He suggests "The Deficit Myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the Birth of the People's Economy" by economist Stephanie Kelton.
by Emily Bright

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Appetites: Duluth entrepreneur Ashley Kidd launches cheesecake company

Ashley Kidd’s doctor told her to stay busy and keep moving during her fifth pregnancy. The Duluth resident took that advice very seriously and decided to start her own business, inspired by her own pregnancy cravings.
by Tom Crann

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The science —  and joy  — of sweat 

The science —  and joy  — of sweat 

Everybody sweats — especially this summer. But that silky film is more than gross. It drips with fascinating science. 
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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The only 'new' thing about cross-cultural casting is who's getting the roles

The only 'new' thing about cross-cultural casting is who's getting the roles

Dev Patel as a knight of the Round Table, Jodie Turner-Smith as Anne Boleyn, the mostly nonwhite casts of “Bridgerton” and “Hamilton” — all belong to a tradition that has its roots in live theater.
by Bob Mondello

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Re-revising 'The History of Jazz'

Ted Gioia first published his “History of Jazz” in 1997, updating it for the first time in 2011. This year he did so again, after a very important decade for the genre.
by Natalie Weiner

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New anthology gives everyone a seat at the Round Table

New anthology gives everyone a seat at the Round Table

“Sword Stone Table” brings together a group of authors from marginalized groups to re-imagine the legends of King Arthur for new eras, places and players, inviting all to sit at the Round Table.
by Liza Graham

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Art Hounds highlight art by and for all generations

Art Hounds highlight art by and for all generations

Preston Drum’s exhibit “Bubbles” in Rochester playfully explores pandemic bubbles and intergenerational relationships. Theatre 55 reprises the music of “Hair” with an outdoor chorus. And the Mni Sota Native Music Series streams in July on The Cedar Public Access Channel.
by Emily Bright

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