Arts, Events & Culture
Art & creativity, events, design, cultural shifts
A sense of urgency permeates the arts and culture landscape, whether it's the Kennedy Center's push for a necessary closure to address repairs or the ongoing cultural dialogues sparked by Jimmy Kimmel’s comedic jabs at Trump. Meanwhile, the revival of Geirr Tveitt’s music and Linett Kamala’s innovative take on maypole dancing reflect a broader trend of reclaiming and reinterpreting cultural legacies. As new voices emerge—like the Newcastle jazz band Knats breaking through regional barriers and the revival of overlooked songwriters—there's an invigorating tension between tradition and modernity, underscoring the resilience and creativity that define today’s artistic scene.
Articles
Mane character energy: part-nag pop provocateur HorsegiirL on burnout, eco tunes and pompous idiot DJsHorsegiirL, the half-human, half-horse DJ and pop provocateur, is redefining dance music with her eco-themed album 'Nature Is Healing,' which reflects her unique persona and challenges the traditional boundaries of the genre, despite facing criticism from some in the dance music community. Her rise to fame, marked by viral performances, has polarized opinions, showcasing a clash between her innovative approach and the nostalgia of established DJs.
Michael is a highly selective version of the singer’s life, and that suits more people than you might think | Nadia KhomamiDespite harsh reviews labeling it a sanitized portrayal, the biopic 'Michael' has achieved record-breaking box office success, prompting reflection on why audiences prefer such selective narratives of artists' lives. The film's appeal lies in its ability to showcase beloved music and moments, even as it glosses over darker realities.
‘When we saw one there were high-fives and hugging’: the Swedish TV show (hopefully) bringing moose to your sofaThe Great Moose Migration has captivated global audiences with its slow TV format, drawing viewers into the wilderness of Sweden for a three-week livestream that focuses on the elusive moose, despite their rare appearances. The show highlights the beauty of nature and the anticipation of spotting these majestic animals, creating a unique viewing experience.
The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout review – readers will delight in these new charactersElizabeth Strout's latest novel, The Things We Never Say, introduces new characters while continuing her exploration of trauma and the intricacies of small-town life, further enriching her interconnected literary universe. Strout's ability to depict the emotional depth of ordinary lives continues to resonate with readers, solidifying her status as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Take a trip on Route 66: still delivering kicks after 100 yearsRoute 66, the iconic highway celebrating its 100th anniversary, remains a beloved American road trip destination, offering a nostalgic journey through history with its vintage attractions and classic diners despite the existence of faster routes.
‘It needs to be loud’: Jozef Van Wissem’s one-man mission to make the lute rock againJozef Van Wissem, a Dutch ex-punk and contemporary lutenist, aims to transform the lute into a mainstream pop instrument, challenging its traditional repertoire and creating a significant body of work, including nearly 50 albums. His latest release, 'This Is My Blood', showcases his commitment to making the lute resonate in modern music.
There will be mud! Could my child (and buggy) survive a day at a sculpture park?Outdoor sculpture parks provide a child-friendly environment for art exploration, allowing kids to engage with art in a natural setting, even in inclement weather. The experience at Yorkshire Sculpture Park highlights the joy and freedom of introducing young children to art outside traditional gallery constraints.
‘Widow’s Bay,’ and 6 More Things to Watch on TV This WeekNew TV highlights this week include the premiere of 'Widow’s Bay' on Apple TV featuring Matthew Rhys, alongside two true crime documentaries.
‘Tracey Emin said they’re all about death’: Johnnie Shand Kydd on his dog-walk photographs – and capturing the hard-partying YBAsJohnnie Shand Kydd reflects on his past as a photographer for the Young British Artists, capturing their chaotic lifestyle, while now finding inspiration in his lurchers during dog walks in rural Suffolk.