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.

Cube Critics: Stay up to date with our weekly art and culture chats with MPR News’ Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle, Max Sparber, Aron Woldeslassie and guests. Listen to or read Cube Critics here

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.

January 20, 2016 2:57 PM

A novel inspired by the true story of America's only fatal nuclear accident

Andria Williams draws on a little-known moment in America's nuclear history as the backdrop for her debut novel, "The Longest Night."

by MPR News Staff

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January 20, 2016 2:27 PM

'Medusa's Web' tangles the occult and the old Hollywood

Tim Powers, best known for his time-travel classic "The Anubis Gates," mixes up the decades again in "Medusa's Web," a tale of an eerie estate in Hollywood and a family unmoored in time.

by Jason Heller

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January 20, 2016 9:37 AM

'Hidden History' of Koch brothers traces their childhood and political rise

Jane Mayer, author of Dark Money, says the Kochs didn't grow up in "the usual cozy, all-American family." Their parents were away much of the time, and competition between the brothers was fierce.

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January 20, 2016 8:57 AM

Cactus Blossoms out with a new album

Today's Morning Edition music is from "Mississippi" by the Minneapolis-based Cactus Blossoms from their new album "You're Dreaming." It comes out Friday.

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January 19, 2016 12:53 PM

The books every person should read

Esquire magazine came under fire for its list of "The 80 Best Books Every Man Should Read." This month, they're attempting to make amends with a new, more diverse list.

by Tracy Mumford

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January 19, 2016 9:36 AM

Amid controversy, Scholastic pulls picture book about Washington's slave

The book tells the story of Hercules, a slave whom George Washington used as a chef. The book shows Hercules and his daughter happy and taking pride in making the president a birthday cake.

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January 19, 2016 8:55 AM

Dolly Parton's rags-to-riches-to-giving story

Dolly Parton turns 70 today. She grew up poor, but is now worth about $500 million. In 1995, she started a program to give away books to kids in honor of her father , who never learned to read.

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January 19, 2016 7:13 AM

Area satirical publication The Onion sold to Univision (seriously)

The Spanish-language network gets a 40 percent, controlling stake in The Onion and related sites, including The A.V. Club and Clickhole. The move comes as Univision tries to reach more millennials.

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January 19, 2016 12:00 AM

From Slate: Is history written about men, by men?

Slate Magazine analyzed more than 600 popular history books published last year, and confirmed a trend: The majority of authors in the field are men, and they're writing about other men.

by Tracy Mumford

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January 18, 2016 4:52 PM

Eagles co-founder Glenn Frey dies

Frey was lead vocalist on the Eagles' breakthrough hit, "Take It Easy." His other showcases included "Peaceful Easy Feeling," ''Already Gone" and "New Kid in Town."

by The Associated Press

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