Notable science fiction author Ursula K. Le Guin wrote a novella about a far-off world that reflects the history of racism and colonization on our own planet. Click here to see graphic novelist Ben Passmore’s rendering of this story.
Tag Archives: Arts & Entertainment
‘Out damned spot’: the Lady Macbeth hand-washing scene that became a Coronavirus meme
How can you tell the works of Shakespeare are timeless? They have a way of showing up in the popular culture of every era, sometimes in surprising ways.
Nearly half of all video-gamers are women
Video games have mostly featured male characters, but women are increasingly playing video games as well. Learn how the video game industry is changing to be more inclusive of female gamers.
Poe Taunts Filmmakers Evermore
Edgar Allan Poe’s dark, intense stories seem like they would make great horror movies. Read this article to explore why filmmakers have found it so difficult to capture the essence of Poe’s work on the big screen.
35 Who Made a Difference: Andy Goldsworthy
Unlike most artists, Andy Goldsworthy, the subject of the documentary film Rivers and Tides, does not intend for his work to last. Find out more about this unusual and influential artist.
An Interview with Poet Patricia Smith
Patricia Smith harnesses the power of words in her work. In this interview, read about why Smith feels that poetry—especially when spoken aloud—has the power to change not only attitudes but also people’s lives.
Ai Weiwei Alcatraz tour: Legos, protest songs and prison cells
Although detained in China for being critical of the Chinese government, Ai Weiwei still manages to create art supporting human rights and free speech. Read this photo essay about a visit to Alcatraz, a former military prison, and view Weiwei’s art made of Legos that speaks up for people from around the world who were imprisoned or exiled from their countries.
Why Are Dragons Important in Chinese Culture?
According to Chinese myths, dragons and humans lived side by side at one time. Learn why dragons are said to be protectors.
Edith Wharton’s World
In this brief biography, guest curators Eleanor Dwight and
Viola Hopkins Winner share details of the life of Edith Wharton.
Property Brothers: Living the Dream
Selling hangers and buying a house for a $250 down-payment were two important decisions for the Property Brothers. They offer suggestions about how to make other decisions in your life.
Lovecraft tribute still haunting on a beautiful spring day
In Providence, Rhode Island, birthplace of H.P. Lovecraft, horror fans gather at Ladd Observatory each year to pay tribute to “the father of modern horror fiction.”
Immigration, Migration, Identity at Center Stage in 2017 Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C., highlights the cultural diversity of American communities. Read to learn more about this colorful event that brings many cultures together in the nation’s capital.
Extraordinary Artist Stephen Wiltshire Sees Cities Once, Draws Detailed Panoramas From Memory
Artist Stephen Wiltshire is know around the world for his detailed panoramas of cities drawn from memory. Read this article to find out how his autism may help him focus his brain to produce such extraordinarily detailed works. Then click on the link to view a slideshow of his drawings.
How Roller Coasters Work: Roller Coaster Components
Most people have seen or ridden a roller-coaster, and either fear riding one or like the ride. So you think you know how a roller coaster works? Compare what you know with what this article tells you.
Navajos share stories about their past, the world
In Phoenix, Arizona, a new program allows people to learn about Navajo traditions and stories. Children and their families hear traditional Navajo stories that help them learn more about their roots.
Dual Axis Illusion named the Best Illusion of 2019
Optical illusions are fun to look at, but did you know there’s an annual competition for creating new illusions? Check out a recent winner.
Colson Whitehead’s ‘Underground Railroad’ Is a Literal Train to Freedom
In this Fresh Air interview, author Colson Whitehead talks about how he re-imagined the escape from enslavement.
How we showed Homer’s Odyssey is not pure fiction, with a little help from Facebook
Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey may seem like pure fiction, but social media tools reveal that they’re at least partly based in fact.
How the Hidden Sounds of Horror Movie Soundtracks Freak You Out
Sometimes when you’re watching a scary movie, you feel dread even though nothing you see is terrifying. Learn how movie soundtracks can manipulate our emotions.
9 Legends of American Folklore
Folktales show us a lot about who we once were and still are. Check out these descriptions of nine classic characters from American folklore: Paul Bunyan, John Henry, Sally Ann Thunder, Johnny Appleseed, Mike Fink, Pecos Bill, Geronimo, and Old Stormalong. Why were they so famous? Why are they still famous today?