Arts, Events & Culture
Art & creativity, events, design, cultural shifts
A tension is simmering between the pursuit of cultural prestige and the ethical dilemmas posed by wealthy donors, as seen in Oxford's new humanities hub and the struggles of opera companies relying on controversial funding. Meanwhile, the intersection of celebrity culture and public perception is under scrutiny, from the fashion choices of Melania Trump and Queen Camilla to Anne Hathaway's defense of inclusivity in the fashion industry. As new artistic endeavors, like the Broadway revival of 'Evita' and the exploration of game feel in interactive entertainment, emerge, they invite us to question the narratives we embrace and the influences shaping our cultural landscape.
Articles
From Manifesto to Mr Loverman: Bernardine Evaristo’s best books – ranked!Bernardine Evaristo's diverse literary works, including her experimental narratives and the exploration of complex relationships, showcase her significant impact on the literary scene, highlighted by her shared Booker Prize win.
‘Reefer Madness,’ the P.S.A. That Backfired SpectacularlyThe 1936 anti-marijuana film 'Reefer Madness' intended to serve as a serious public service announcement but instead evolved into a cult classic and parody, highlighting the unintended consequences of its exaggerated warnings.
Rebel Wilson accused in court of trying to paint actor as ‘money grabbing opportunist’ as defamation trial beginsRebel Wilson is facing accusations in court of attempting to discredit actor Charlotte MacInnes by portraying her as a 'money grabbing opportunist' in a defamation case related to a withdrawn sexual harassment allegation. Wilson's legal team argues that the withdrawal of the complaint was influenced by MacInnes's decision to support the alleged victim.
Grimes joining LinkedIn is artwashing at its most brazen. I should know – I released my new film on thereGrimes' recent move to LinkedIn, a platform often seen as uninspiring, is criticized as a blatant form of artwashing, reflecting a troubling trend where artists align with corporate interests, particularly in the AI space. The author, who has also released a film on LinkedIn, highlights the absurdity of this shift in the art world.
Europe’s last coal – a photo essayPoland remains the last EU country fully committed to coal mining, with 80,000 workers still extracting record amounts of coal amid global energy price fluctuations, raising questions about the future of fossil fuels in the region. The photo essay highlights the daily lives of miners, particularly Rafal Dzuman, who has spent decades working underground in a historic coal mine.
Sara Pascoe and Cariad Lloyd’s offbeat literary show returns: best podcasts of the weekSara Pascoe and Cariad Lloyd return with the fifth season of their podcast 'Weirdo’s Book Club,' offering a fresh take on literature with discussions on works like Emily Wilson’s translation of 'The Odyssey' and guest appearances from notable authors and musicians.
Museum of the year finalists revealed by Art FundFinalists for the Art Fund's Museum of the Year award have been revealed, competing for a £120,000 prize.
‘Half Man,’ and 5 More Things to Watch on TV This WeekRichard Gadd's new series 'Half Man' premieres on HBO, while Hulu celebrates 420 with a lineup of cannabis-themed shows.
Mint review – the most outrageously beautiful TV show since Twin PeaksCharlotte Regan's series Mint combines elements of romance and gangster drama, showcasing stunning visuals and unique storytelling that evoke comparisons to Twin Peaks, highlighted by a particularly striking scene of self-pleasure. The show centers on Shannon, a young woman navigating love and family dynamics in a visually captivating Scottish setting.