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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.

A is for appreciation: How Sue Grafton helped transform the mystery genre

A is for appreciation: How Sue Grafton helped transform the mystery genre

Grafton revolutionized what had become fossilized formula fiction. She tossed out the genre's sexist, racist and nativist cliches and helped make the detective novel matter again.
by Maureen Corrigan

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Why is venison on expensive plates and food pantry shelves?

Why is venison on expensive plates and food pantry shelves?

Venison, a luxury meat sold in high-end stores also shows up on the winter menus of expensive restaurants. But venison from deer killed by hunters can't be sold, so much of it is given away for free.
by Dan Charles

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Hoda Kotb named co-anchor of 'Today' show, replacing Matt Lauer

Hoda Kotb named co-anchor of 'Today' show, replacing Matt Lauer

Kotb has filled in for Lauer since he was fired in late November for inappropriate sexual behavior. Now it's official: Kotb and Savannah Guthrie are Today's first all-female anchor team.

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The worst words of 2017

Why is it that some words or phrases catch on quicker than others? Linguist Anatoly Liberman analyzed trends from 2017 and their origins.
by Kerri Miller

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Singing about 'Minneap'lis, Minnesota'

In honor of Jacob Frey being sworn in as the new mayor of Minneapolis today, listen to an obscure song called "Minneap'lis, Minnesota" by Rufus Lumley.
by Phil Picardi

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Hollywood women launch initiative to stop sexual harassment

Hollywood women launch initiative to stop sexual harassment

Some 300 actresses, writers, producers and talent agents took out a full-page ad in The New York Times to announce the campaign, which includes a $13 million legal defense fund.

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Gretchen Carlson named chair of Miss America organization

Gretchen Carlson named chair of Miss America organization

The selection of the Anoka, Minn., native, marks the first time a former pageant winner has served as the leader of the nearly 100-year-old organization.
by The Associated Press

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Ringo Starr, Bee Gee Barry Gibb tapped as British knights

Ringo Starr, Bee Gee Barry Gibb tapped as British knights

A Beatle and a Bee Gee are among the celebrated citizens who have been selected for knighthood and other awards given in the name of Britain's monarch.
by Associated Press

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That time you fell in love with a mutant potato

That time you fell in love with a mutant potato

Rot is a super confident and very friendly mutant potato who is bound and determined to win "The Cutest in the World" contest. Bookseller Moira Koskey said Rot's story is one of her favorite picture books of the year.
by Tracy Mumford

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