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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: 'Fresh Water for Flowers'

Ask a Bookseller: 'Fresh Water for Flowers'

The story follows the very likeable Violette Toussaint, caretaker of a cemetery, whose days are punctuated by cemetery visitors.
by Emily Bright

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Charley Pride, trailblazing Black country music star, dies at 86

Charley Pride, trailblazing Black country music star, dies at 86

Charley Pride, country music’s first Black star whose rich baritone on such hits as “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” sold millions of records and helped make him the first Black member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, has died. He was 86.
by The Associated Press

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Wesley Morris on culture, movies and being a critic

Wesley Morris on culture, movies and being a critic

MPR News’ Angela Davis talks with critic and podcast host Wesley Morris about his work, politics and his picks for the top performances of 2020. 
by Angela Davis

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The Five: A card game, acapella dancing and more for early winter

MPR News director of programming Steph Curtis stopped by with an early winter edition of “The Five,” where she recommends things to read, listen to and experience right now.
by Kerri Miller, Stephanie Curtis and Kelly Gordon

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In new picture book, family adds a 'ninth night of Hanukkah'

In new picture book, family adds a 'ninth night of Hanukkah'

In Erica Perl's new children's book, a family's box of Hanukkah items are misplaced during a move. Their neighbors help them to make their holiday a success — so they add a ninth night to thank them.
by Ari Shapiro and Sam Gringlas

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Denver's Tattered Cover becomes nation's largest Black-owned indie bookstore

Denver's Tattered Cover becomes nation's largest Black-owned indie bookstore

The beloved local chain, founded in 1971, has had a rough year, including severe revenue losses during the pandemic. Its new owners are led by two Denver natives and self-described high school rivals.
by Petra Mayer

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Art Hounds: A new interpretation of 'The Snow Queen'

Art Hounds: A new interpretation of 'The Snow Queen'

This week’s Art Hounds recommend an immigration story from Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company, Ballet Co.Laboratory’s “The Snow Queen,” and a painting-fiber arts hybrid exhibit by Rochester artist Cassandra Buck.
by Emily Bright

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Is America living up to its ideals?

Is America living up to its ideals?

Journalist and author Thomas Ricks wrote “First Principles” to answer the question he asked himself: Is this what the nation’s founders intended?
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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