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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.

How we know where words come from

How we know where words come from

Some words sound so odd that you can't help but wonder where they came from. Etymologist Anatoly Liberman's book "Word Origins and How We Know Them: Etymology for Everyone" takes readers on a journey to learn where words come from.
by Kerri Miller and Jeyca Maldonado-Medina

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Gospel and soul legend Mavis Staples releases a new album on Friday

"We've got more work to do, so I'm going to keep on getting stronger and keep on delivering my message every single day," Staples said in a statement. She turns 80 in July.
by Cathy Wurzer

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Kamchatka is a rich backdrop for mystery in 'Disappearing Earth'

Kamchatka is a rich backdrop for mystery in 'Disappearing Earth'

Julia Phillips' debut novel takes readers through a year following the disappearance of two little girls in the remote Russian province of Kamchatka -- and the way that disappearance reverberates.
by Bethanne Patrick

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In praise of far-fetched ideas

In praise of far-fetched ideas

How a society can cultivate innovative solutions for everyday problems and stop rejecting so-called "loonshots" before they have a chance to prove themselves.
by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon

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Novelist Max Porter's new tale 'Lanny' lets readers find their own meaning

Novelist Max Porter's new tale 'Lanny' lets readers find their own meaning

Porter will read from his new book Monday in Minneapolis, in conversation with Graywolf publisher Fiona McCrae. He describes the small, Minnesota-based press as a mighty, mighty force.
by Euan Kerr

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Minnesota-inspired Cuban American Youth Orchestra launches its first tour

Minnesota-inspired Cuban American Youth Orchestra launches its first tour

Eleven members of the Minnesota Orchestra will join 25 young U.S. musicians in Cuba for the inaugural tour of an organization inspired by the 2015 Minnesota Orchestra visit to Havana.
by Euan Kerr

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The Netherlands wins Eurovision Song Contest

The Netherlands wins Eurovision Song Contest

The Netherlands won the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv Saturday, with Duncan Laurence's doleful piano ballad "Arcade" crowned champion of Europe's annual music extravaganza.
by Associated Press

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'There's Something About Sweetie' -- something irrepressibly joyous

'There's Something About Sweetie' -- something irrepressibly joyous

Sandhya Menon's followup to her hit young adult novel "When Dimple Met Rishi" follows a young woman with a big voice, a big personality -- and to her family's dismay (though not her own), a big body.
by Alethea Kontis

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