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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.

Indie booksellers turn virtual in response to pandemic

Indie booksellers turn virtual in response to pandemic

Many small bookstores are being nimble during the pandemic as they try to serve customers, even as they try to keep their heads above water.
by Euan Kerr

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Minnesota libraries offer contactless curbside pickup to serve readers

Minnesota libraries offer contactless curbside pickup to serve readers

Libraries across Minnesota remain closed to the public, but some have started offering contactless curbside pickup for patrons looking for a fresh influx of reading material.
by Emily Bright

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In Cesar Aira's latest, 'Artforum' has a magic beyond the page

In Cesar Aira's latest, 'Artforum' has a magic beyond the page

Aira's oddball new novella chronicles his love affair with the magazine “Artforum,” to which he ascribes almost magical qualities. It's a giddy, self-indulgent but delightful read.
by Kamil Ahsan

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'Meet Me At Midnight' for a lively summer romp

'Meet Me At Midnight' for a lively summer romp

None of us are likely to have a glorious summer this year — but crack open Jessica Pennington's new “Meet Me at Midnight” and follow the charming enemies-to-lovers story, and you'll get close.
by Alethea Kontis

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Set 1,500 years from now, 'The Last Emperox' is still pretty timely

Set 1,500 years from now, 'The Last Emperox' is still pretty timely

In the last installment of Scalzi's Interdependency trilogy, a ruler must fight to save a galactic empire threatened by greed, complacency and the collapse of vital resources. Sound familiar?
by Scott Simon

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In 'Mad, Bad & Dangerous,' romantic sleuths uncover a Byronic secret

In 'Mad, Bad & Dangerous,' romantic sleuths uncover a Byronic secret

Samira Ahmed's new novel bounces between two timelines, following a Muslim American art student in Paris, and the mysterious harem woman she believes inspired work by Lord Byron and his circle.
by Caitlyn Paxson

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Native Americans put digital spin on traditions amid virus

Native Americans put digital spin on traditions amid virus

Native Americans across the U.S. are organizing online and social-distancing powwows and posting videos of dances as a way to offer hope and spiritual support during the coronavirus pandemic.
by The Associated Press

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5 easy art projects to enjoy during social distancing

5 easy art projects to enjoy during social distancing

Sarah Urist Green, creator of PBS' “The Art Assignment,” walks through five fun art projects that don't require fancy supplies or talent to create and enjoy.
by LA Johnson

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In 'How Much Of These Hills Is Gold,' this land is not your land

In 'How Much Of These Hills Is Gold,' this land is not your land

C Pam Zhang's debut novel follows a brother and sister, children of Chinese laborers, as the search the dusty hills of Gold Rush-era California for a place to bury their father's body.
by Annalisa Quinn

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