Arts Post - Cultural news as seen by the Washington Post's arts writers and critics.

Alright, the day is almost here. But before the day comes the night. To celebrate the season Arts Post has compiled a list of our blog staff’s favorite Christmas Songs.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:00 PM ET, 12/24/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:04 PM ET, 12/23/2011

Jordans in 1985 and now: a frenzy afoot

By Martha Sherrill Dailey

Air Jordans have once more created a frenzy for fans

By Martha Sherrill Dailey | 01:04 PM ET, 12/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:25 PM ET, 12/23/2011

It’s coming...The List

By Dan Zak

The List is a 34-year-old tradition of the Washington Post Style section. To know it is to love it

By Dan Zak | 12:25 PM ET, 12/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 12/23/2011

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home): Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

It’s only three days now to the Big Day, the Christmas celebration. Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite holiday songs and we have many, including the timeless Darlene Love.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:00 AM ET, 12/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:38 AM ET, 12/23/2011

Occupy the North Pole?

By Maura Judkis

UNICEF depicts Santa as the 1 percent.

By Maura Judkis | 10:38 AM ET, 12/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:28 AM ET, 12/23/2011

Obama, Sarkozy, Pippa Middleton in stitches

By Maura Judkis

A French blogger knits the softer side of the news.

By Maura Judkis | 10:28 AM ET, 12/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:35 PM ET, 12/22/2011

Navy gay kiss photo echoes V-J Day image

By Maura Judkis

The couple’s pose recalls that of Alfred Eisenstaedt’s famous photo for Life Magazine.

By Maura Judkis | 03:35 PM ET, 12/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 12/22/2011

Joy to the World: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

With only four days left until Christmas Day, we are nearing the end of Arts Post holiday treat for you. Music is always a good companion to the holidays, especially with Mannheim Steamroller.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:00 PM ET, 12/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:19 AM ET, 12/22/2011

John Chamberlain, sculptor of crushed cars, dies

By Maura Judkis

The artist, whose work defied easy categorization, will be the subject of a retrospective at the Guggenheim.

By Maura Judkis | 11:19 AM ET, 12/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:31 AM ET, 12/22/2011

Emergency music hotline

By Maura Judkis

Do you have an insatiable desire to listen to “Rich Girl” immediately?

By Maura Judkis | 10:31 AM ET, 12/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:00 AM ET, 12/22/2011

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 10:00 AM ET, 12/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:40 PM ET, 12/21/2011

American Institute of Architects honors Daniel Feil

By Philip Kennicott

The architect is in charge of the forthcoming Eisenhower Memorial.

By Philip Kennicott | 05:40 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:16 PM ET, 12/21/2011

Lincoln Theatre gets new management: the city

By Jacqueline Trescott

The financially strapped Lincoln Theatre will be under the management of the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, starting Jan. 1, the mayor’s office announced. The historic theatre on U St. N.W. faced financial difficulties for several years.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 04:16 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:41 PM ET, 12/21/2011

Sloths, the new kittens

By Maura Judkis

The Internet has turned its attention, slowly, to baby sloths.

By Maura Judkis | 02:41 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 12/21/2011

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favoriet Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:00 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:16 PM ET, 12/21/2011

Anti-SOPA advocates combat bill through song, boycott

By Maura Judkis

Opponents of the Stop Online Piracy Act are using the winter recess to drum up support.

By Maura Judkis | 01:16 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:10 PM ET, 12/21/2011

D.C. hunger striker appears in street art

By Maura Judkis

A street artist has wheatpasted an image based on The Washington Post’s photo of hunger striker Adrian Parsons.

By Maura Judkis | 12:10 PM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:06 AM ET, 12/21/2011

Angels We Have Heard on High: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:06 AM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:53 AM ET, 12/21/2011

Lacoste Elysée Prize withdraws nomination of Palestinian photographer

By Maura Judkis

Is it censorship?

By Maura Judkis | 10:53 AM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:43 AM ET, 12/21/2011

Crossword marriage proposal: Where are they now?

By Evelio Contreras and Andrea Caumont

Eight months ago, the Washington Post crossword puzzle had some odd answers: ”Marlowe Epstein, will you marry me?”

By Evelio Contreras and Andrea Caumont | 09:43 AM ET, 12/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:05 PM ET, 12/20/2011

Kim Jong Il’s mourners spark a meme

By Maura Judkis

“Genuine Reactions to Kim Jong Il’s Death” raises questions about mocking a country whose public displays of sadness are quite real.

By Maura Judkis | 04:05 PM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:32 PM ET, 12/20/2011

Payroll tax cut bill in danger; supermarket Hanukkah fail: Soundtrack of the day

By Bethonie Butler

House Republicans are poised to reject the payroll tax cut extension agreed on by the Senate. A D.C. Whole Foods fails at its Hanukkah display. What songs match these headlines?

By Bethonie Butler | 01:32 PM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Soundtrack of the day

Posted at 12:14 PM ET, 12/20/2011

In 2012 federal budget NEA is cut, Smithsonian gets a raise

By Jacqueline Trescott

Pending the president’s signature, the 2012 federal budget contains $146.2 million for the National Endowment for the Arts and the same amount for the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Smithsonian Institution will receive $811.5 million, a raise of $52 million

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:14 PM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:09 PM ET, 12/20/2011

‘Elements of Style’ rap breaks its own rules

By Maura Judkis

Columbia journalism students resurrect the authors of the famous writing guidebook.

By Maura Judkis | 12:09 PM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:19 AM ET, 12/20/2011

Hanukkah tunes: The Maccabeats’ newest ‘Miracle’

By Maura Judkis

The a cappella group is back with another catchy Hanukkah tune.

By Maura Judkis | 11:19 AM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 12/20/2011

Merry Christmas Baby: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:00 AM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:15 AM ET, 12/20/2011

Pajama Jeans: Now for men

By Maura Judkis

Oh, no.

By Maura Judkis | 10:15 AM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:00 AM ET, 12/20/2011

Come On! Let’s Boogie to the Elf Dance! Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas Songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 10:00 AM ET, 12/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:58 PM ET, 12/19/2011

O Holy Night: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 03:58 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:28 PM ET, 12/19/2011

QR code tattoo signals end of the QR code?

By Maura Judkis

One man has a tattoo of a QR code that, when scanned by a smartphone, displays a random image or tweet.

By Maura Judkis | 03:28 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:30 PM ET, 12/19/2011

North Korean children’s musical performances

By Maura Judkis

The performances on state-run TV are like the “Toddlers and Tiaras” of the East.

By Maura Judkis | 02:30 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:17 PM ET, 12/19/2011

‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’ fashion under fire

By Cara Kelly

Fashion retailer H&M is experiencing a backlash.

By Cara Kelly | 02:17 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 12/19/2011

‘Kim Jong Il Looking at Things’ will likely continue beyond its meme-maker’s death

By Maura Judkis

The North Korean leader was the subject of mockery from artists.

By Maura Judkis | 12:44 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:02 PM ET, 12/19/2011

Payroll tax cut extension in doubt; Vaclav Havel dies: Soundtrack of the day

By Bethonie Butler

What songs would you pair with today’s top headlines?

By Bethonie Butler | 12:02 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Soundtrack of the day

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 12/19/2011

Wonderful Christmas Time: Christmas song countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas Songs.We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:00 PM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:25 AM ET, 12/19/2011

Kim Jong Il’s cultural legacy

By Maura Judkis

The North Korean leader considered himself a patron of the arts.

By Maura Judkis | 11:25 AM ET, 12/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 12/18/2011

Louisiana Christmas Day: Christmas song countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:00 PM ET, 12/18/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:35 PM ET, 12/17/2011

Sleigh Ride: Christmas song countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We hae so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 01:35 PM ET, 12/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:24 PM ET, 12/16/2011

A poem for Christopher Hitchens

By Gene Weingarten

Gene Weingarten on the writer’s passing.

By Gene Weingarten | 09:24 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 12/16/2011

The Little Drummer Boy: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:00 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:06 PM ET, 12/16/2011

Berlin Laughter Project gets entire subway car giggling

By Maura Judkis

Laughter is contagious.

By Maura Judkis | 01:06 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:00 PM ET, 12/16/2011

How to make a designer Facebook Timeline

By Maura Judkis

The new design allows users to select a huge “cover” photo.

By Maura Judkis | 01:00 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:28 PM ET, 12/16/2011

GOP debate: Candidate haiku challenge

By Andrea Caumont

We are looking for the best haiku about each of the GOP candidates, so get out your counting fingers and type up your best 5-7-5 verses in the comments.

By Andrea Caumont | 12:28 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:23 PM ET, 12/16/2011

Congress passes deal; Christopher Hitchens dies: Soundtrack of the day

By Bethonie Butler

Pair your favorite songs with today’s headlines, from Congress’ last-minute spending deal to news of Christopher Hitchens’ death.

By Bethonie Butler | 12:23 PM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Soundtrack of the day

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 12/16/2011

Silver Bells: Christmas Song Countdown

By Jacqueline Trescott

Arts Post has compiled a list of our staff’s favorite Christmas Songs. We have so many songs we could go through the New Year but will stop while you are still in the Christmas mood.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:00 AM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:48 AM ET, 12/16/2011

Christopher Hitchens: His best quips in The Washington Post

By Maura Judkis

Hitchens contributed book reviews and op-eds over several decades.

By Maura Judkis | 10:48 AM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:00 AM ET, 12/16/2011

Mark Rylance will do some “pop-up” Shakespeare at the Olympics

By Jacqueline Trescott

Mark Rylance will join a group of acting troubadours in the streets to entertain with “pop-up” Shakespeare characters and lines during the Olympics

By Jacqueline Trescott | 09:00 AM ET, 12/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:12 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Lost and found: iPod edition

By Ryan Kellett

Can you help? We’re on a quest to see if the musical fingerprint of a playlist is unique enough to identify a discovered iPod.

By Ryan Kellett | 05:12 PM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:23 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Victoria’s [real] Secret: Child labor, says Bloomberg report

By Maura Judkis

The news service has discovered that the cotton the company uses for its lingerie is harvested by child laborers.

By Maura Judkis | 01:23 PM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:38 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Occupy DC to host “Guerrilla Gallery”

By Maura Judkis

Artists are building a set of roving galleries to display Occupy artists’ work.

By Maura Judkis | 12:38 PM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:26 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Wright Brothers anniversary

By Jacqueline Trescott

With all the news about airline travel and passengers and airlines trading barbs, it’s good to remember what a groundbreaking event happened on Dec. 17, 1903. The Wright Brothers took off from Kitty Hawk, N.C., flying for 12 seconds a distance of 120 feet. The Smithsonian provided a photograph from that day through its Smithsonian Snapshot feature.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:26 PM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:28 AM ET, 12/15/2011

Golden Globe nods; Spending bill stalled; Unclaimed money: Soundtrack of the day

By Bethonie Butler

Help us set today’s headlines to music and create a soundtrack of the day.

By Bethonie Butler | 11:28 AM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Soundtrack of the day

Posted at 11:11 AM ET, 12/15/2011

Broadway audiences: Smart, white, rich, female, middle-aged

By Maura Judkis

It’s not surprising to learn that Broadway audiences aren’t very diverse.

By Maura Judkis | 11:11 AM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:43 AM ET, 12/15/2011

Shakespeare and Co. owner dies

By Melissa Bell and Maura Judkis

George Whitman, the owner of the famous Paris bookstore, leaves behind a literary legacy.

By Melissa Bell and Maura Judkis | 09:43 AM ET, 12/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:39 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Ford’s Theatre offers a peek at its Lincoln book tower

By Jacqueline Trescott

Ford’s Theatre offered a peek at its unusual Abraham Lincoln book tower Wednesday. The 34-foot tower of 7,000 copies of books about Lincoln will be a centerpiece of the theatre’s Center for Education and Leadership, which opens in February across from the historic site where Lincoln was killed.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 06:39 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:59 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Kiplingers give art to Historical Society

By Jacqueline Trescott

The Kiplinger family have donated their collection of D.C. art to the Historical Society of Washington.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 04:59 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:27 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Kayak exec criticizes ‘All-American Muslim’

By Maura Judkis

Are advertisers fleeing the reality show because of bigotry, or taste?

By Maura Judkis | 02:27 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:47 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Elizabeth Taylor’s jewels break auction record

By Cara Kelly

The legendary actress’s collection set a record for Christie’s auction house.

By Cara Kelly | 01:47 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Santa’s list? There’s an app for that

By Maura Judkis

Christmas shopping apps organize gift-giving.

By Maura Judkis | 12:44 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:07 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Meteor shower; Iraq war ends; Time honors ‘The protester’: Soundtrack of the day

By Bethonie Butler

From the end of the Iraq war to a spectacular meteor shower, set today’s headlines to music and help us create the soundtrack of the day.

By Bethonie Butler | 12:07 PM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Soundtrack of the day

Posted at 10:44 AM ET, 12/14/2011

Cai Guo-Qiang lights up Doha sky with daytime fireworks display

By Maura Judkis

Fireworks aren’t just for the nighttime anymore.

By Maura Judkis | 10:44 AM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:22 AM ET, 12/14/2011

Early Jim Henson animation found

By Maura Judkis

The cartoon shows how far paper cutout animation has come.

By Maura Judkis | 10:22 AM ET, 12/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:46 PM ET, 12/13/2011

“Nutcracker” generates dollars as well as joy

By Jacqueline Trescott

For years arts advocates have been preaching the spin-off effect of a lively downtown art scene. The Washington Post’s diligent columnist Thomas Heath took a long look at the impact of the Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” on the nearly businesses.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 03:46 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:46 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Watch: Chanel’s luxe Mumbai banquet

By Maura Judkis

Karl Lagerfeld’s designs referenced the Mughal Empire of India.

By Maura Judkis | 02:46 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Coca-Cola Foundation donates $2 million to Smithsonian

By Jacqueline Trescott

The Coca-Cola Foundation donated $2 million to the Smithsonian Institution and split the grant into carry-out cartons: $1.2 million to the National Museum of African American History and Culture; $500,000 for a curator-in-residence program at the National Museum of African Art; and $250,000 for the “At Water’s Edge” exhibit at the National Zoo.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:00 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:55 PM ET, 12/13/2011

See China’s creepy abandoned fake Disneyland (PHOTOS)

By Maura Judkis

“Wonderland,” a Disney-style amusement park, was never completed.

By Maura Judkis | 01:55 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:39 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Gifts for the 1%: A $165 coffee sleeve

By Maura Judkis

For the price of more than 40 lattes, one coffee sleeve!

By Maura Judkis | 12:39 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:11 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Should sarcasm have its own font?

By Maura Judkis

It’s hard to tell when people are being sarcastic online.

By Maura Judkis | 12:11 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Ski gear fits the fashionable winter wardrobe

By Cara Kelly

Four trends this season make it easy to blend ski gear into your wardrobe.

By Cara Kelly | 12:00 PM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:23 AM ET, 12/13/2011

Michelle Obama requests “The Christmas Song” and one from Adele

By Jacqueline Trescott

First Lady Michelle Obama, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, asked pianist David Osborne, to play “The Christmas Song,” “Sleigh Ride,” Adele’s “Someone Like You,” Stevie Wonder’s “Overjoyed” and “Ribbon in the Sky,” as well as Johann Packelbel "Canon in D.”

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:23 AM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:40 AM ET, 12/13/2011

SOPA visual petition riles up the ‘geek lobby’

By Maura Judkis

The Stop Online Piracy Act is still a battlefield.

By Maura Judkis | 10:40 AM ET, 12/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:03 PM ET, 12/12/2011

SantaCon: Naughty or nice?

By Maura Judkis

Photos | This love-it-or-hate-it bar crawl has observers strongly divided.

By Maura Judkis | 03:03 PM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:52 PM ET, 12/12/2011

Justin Bieber co-opts steampunk subculture

By Maura Judkis

Fans of the Victorian-inspired lifestyle are worried that Bieber has ruined their fun.

By Maura Judkis | 12:52 PM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:18 PM ET, 12/12/2011

YouTube dancers: Post interview

By Haley Crum

Nothing says Christmas like two dancers in red, skintight, unisex leotards and Christmas socks from Target.

By Haley Crum | 12:18 PM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:51 AM ET, 12/12/2011

9/11 imitation twin towers designers apologize

By Maura Judkis

The Dutch architecture firm MVRDV inadvertently designed a building that looked like the Twin Towers under attack.

By Maura Judkis | 10:51 AM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:45 AM ET, 12/12/2011

Creating ‘Very Mary-Kate’

By Jessica Goldstein

Very Mary-Kate will be answering your questions in a special video interview segment we like to call “VMK Q&A.”

By Jessica Goldstein | 10:45 AM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:40 AM ET, 12/12/2011

Bourdain’s ‘Krampus Carol’ demon Christmas cartoon rejected

By Maura Judkis

A sadistic Christmas demon hits the cutting room floor in “No Reservations.”

By Maura Judkis | 09:40 AM ET, 12/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:50 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Politics and Prose lends Book World a hand

By Ron Charles

Politics and Prose Bookstore lends 100 titles to Book World for the cover shot of its annual book guide.

By Ron Charles | 04:50 PM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:23 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Occupy Wall Street setting for Vice fashion shoot

By Maura Judkis

Models occupy Wall Street in very expensive suits.

By Maura Judkis | 04:23 PM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:53 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Rick Perry’s ‘war on religion’ ad becomes a meme

By Maura Judkis

Rick Perry said that religion would make America strong again, but bloggers have a different idea.

By Maura Judkis | 01:53 PM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:28 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Fake baby bumps all the rage in China

By Maura Judkis

Chinese-made fake pregnancy bellies are flying off the shelves.

By Maura Judkis | 01:28 PM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:43 AM ET, 12/09/2011

Tangerine Tango: The new black?

By Maura Judkis

The citrus-red color has been named Pantone’s color of the year in fashion.

By Maura Judkis | 10:43 AM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:16 AM ET, 12/09/2011

H&M;’s computer-generated models incur feminist, industry wrath

By Maura Judkis

The company defended its use of “virtual mannequins.”

By Maura Judkis | 10:16 AM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:00 AM ET, 12/09/2011

National Museum of American History plans some closings during major renovation

By Jacqueline Trescott

The National Museum of American History has started a major renovation of its West Wing. The museum is planning some closings of the area, including its entertainment collection. But visitors will still be able to see Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 08:00 AM ET, 12/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:28 PM ET, 12/08/2011

‘Obama’ at the Occupy DC camp (Photo)

By Dan Zak

Dan Zak captured an image of Obama after the Occupy DC arrests.

By Dan Zak | 04:28 PM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:40 PM ET, 12/08/2011

Rick Perry and ‘The War on Christmas’

By Maura Judkis

War broke out on Twitter, and no elves were safe.

By Maura Judkis | 02:40 PM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:58 PM ET, 12/08/2011

Christmas commercials: Are they getting meaner?

By Maura Judkis

TV critic Hank Stuever complains that Christmas commercials this year have been made by Scrooges.

By Maura Judkis | 01:58 PM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 12/08/2011

National Gallery puts a few Rothko’s back on view

By Jacqueline Trescott

The National Gallery of Art has returned three murals of Mark Rothko to public view. These are murals from the so-called Seagram Mural project, that Rothko eventually backed out of, but provided the inspiration for “Red,” the award winning play that will be mounted at Arena Stage, starting January 20.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:00 PM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:41 AM ET, 12/08/2011

Bolshoi dancer keeps Stephen Colbert on his toes

By Maura Judkis

David Hallberg had a dance-off with Stephen Colbert last night on the “Colbert Report.”

By Maura Judkis | 10:41 AM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:33 AM ET, 12/08/2011

The Best Memes of 2011

By Maura Judkis

Know Your Meme has selected the memes of the year.

By Maura Judkis | 10:33 AM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:00 AM ET, 12/08/2011

Dorothea Lange: A Photographer’s Story

By Jacqueline Trescott

Dorothea Lange, the famed photographer of the 1930s Depression, is the subject of a lecture Monday at the Woodrow Wilson International Center. Dr. Linda Gordon, a professor at New York University, will talk about Lange’s life as part of a joint program with the Wilson Center and the National Women’s History Museum.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 10:00 AM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:46 PM ET, 12/07/2011

Words With Friends: The addictive game gets a boost

By Maura Judkis

After Alec Baldwin tweeted that he was kicked off a plane for playing a Scrabble-like game, Words With Friends got a popularity boost.

By Maura Judkis | 12:46 PM ET, 12/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:14 PM ET, 12/07/2011

Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt announces it has raised $54 million for renovation

By Jacqueline Trescott

Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum announced Wednesday it had raised its goal of $54 million for its renovation campaign. The New York museum is renovating its historic Carnegie Mansion on the Upper East Side and has completed renovation of its two adjoining townhouses.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:14 PM ET, 12/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:10 AM ET, 12/07/2011

All I want for Christmas is Mariah Carey lip-synch viral videos

By Maura Judkis

Every year, the song is perfect for lip-synch parodies.

By Maura Judkis | 11:10 AM ET, 12/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:55 AM ET, 12/07/2011

Oedipus story ‘Ed King’ receives Bad Sex in Literature Award

By Maura Judkis

David Guterson’s over-reliance on euphemisms like “family jewels,” “back door,” and “front parlour” helped him clinch the prize.

By Maura Judkis | 10:55 AM ET, 12/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:42 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Capitol Christmas tree lighting

By Amanda McGrath

John Boehner and others gather to light the 65-goot white fir on the Capitol’s west lawn.

By Amanda McGrath | 04:42 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:43 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Pose iPhone app shares your outfits each day

By Maura Judkis

Snap a daily picture of your outfit, and you may get compliments from strangers.

By Maura Judkis | 03:43 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:24 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Teng, Chinese fashion celebrated at ‘Dress to Empress’ soiree

By Megan Buerger

The gala was hosted by the Silk Road Society, a group for young art enthusiasts with a focus on Asian culture.

By Megan Buerger | 01:24 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:32 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Wolf Trap president Terrence Jones leaving

By Jacqueline Trescott

Terrence Jones, the president of Wolf Trap Foundation since 1996, announced he is leaving the performing arts and education organization in December 2012.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:32 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:15 PM ET, 12/06/2011

This week in department store Santas

By Maura Judkis

Santas face flash mobs, melees and soul-sucking disappointment.

By Maura Judkis | 12:15 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:03 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Danielle Evans for Teaching for Change

By John Wilwol

Local short story writer Danielle Evans speaks at event for Teaching for Change.

By John Wilwol | 12:03 PM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:36 AM ET, 12/06/2011

Tom Petty cutouts give weirdest tour of D.C. ever

By Maura Judkis

A video drives “Petty Cabs” through the streets of Washington.

By Maura Judkis | 10:36 AM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:29 AM ET, 12/06/2011

Sex, exercise and the arts make us happiest

By Maura Judkis

The arts are almost as effective as sex, when it comes to making us happy. Or so says an iPhone survey.

By Maura Judkis | 10:29 AM ET, 12/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:26 PM ET, 12/05/2011

President Obama on the record on the arts

By Jacqueline Trescott

At the White House Sunday President Obama welcomed the 2011 Kennedy Center Honorees and said the arts need to thrive so future Kennedy Center Honorees can be inspired.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 04:26 PM ET, 12/05/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:02 PM ET, 12/05/2011

Smithsonian and Warner Brothers team up for a movie theater

By Jacqueline Trescott

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is joining Warner Brothers in a theater project at the museum. The newly renovated Warner Bros. Theater will open in February 2012 with a Humphrey Bogart festival.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:02 PM ET, 12/05/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 12/05/2011

Theater “tweet seats”: Good idea, or bad etiquette?

By Maura Judkis

Should theater patrons be allowed to tweet during performances?

By Maura Judkis | 12:44 PM ET, 12/05/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:57 AM ET, 12/05/2011

Fox News calls the Muppets communists

By Maura Judkis

The film exposes children to an “anti-corporate message,” according to Fox News.

By Maura Judkis | 11:57 AM ET, 12/05/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:06 AM ET, 12/05/2011

Kennedy Center Honors: 2040

By Maura Judkis

Up-and-coming stars today could be on the path to Kennedy Center Honors 30 years from now.

By Maura Judkis | 10:06 AM ET, 12/05/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:47 AM ET, 12/03/2011

Edith Pearlman wins PEN/Malamud Award

By Ron Charles

The 75-year-old author garnered the honor, for excellence in short-story writing, on Friday night.

By Ron Charles | 10:47 AM ET, 12/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:07 PM ET, 12/02/2011

The 2011 Kennedy Center Honors

By Maura Judkis

Celebrating Barbara Cook, Yo-Yo Ma, Neil Diamond, Meryl Streep and Sonny Rollins.

By Maura Judkis | 12:07 PM ET, 12/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:29 AM ET, 12/02/2011

Derek Blasberg keeps it ‘classy’ for the holidays

By Erin Williams

We talked with the expert on how one can present one’s best self during the month of December.

By Erin Williams | 11:29 AM ET, 12/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 12/02/2011

Neil Diamond: Kennedy Center Honors Watch

By Jacqueline Trescott

Neil Diamond, one of the 2011 Kennedy Center Honorees, sat down with the Post’s top-notch Major League Baseball writer, David Sheinin. Arts Post has obtained some of the outtakes from their chat and a full profile will appear in Sunday’s Arts section.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:00 AM ET, 12/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:30 AM ET, 12/02/2011

Pole dancing: Olympic sport?

By Maura Judkis

Pole fitness advocates say that they belong in the Olympics with gymnastics.

By Maura Judkis | 10:30 AM ET, 12/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:27 PM ET, 12/01/2011

National Christmas Tree lights up Washington

By Amanda McGrath

Video and photos of the Obamas, Kermit, musical guests and the ceremony’s true star: The tree.

By Amanda McGrath | 03:27 PM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 12/01/2011

Yo-Yo Ma: Kennedy Center Honors Watch

By Jacqueline Trescott

This weekend Yo-Yo Ma, Meryl Streep, Sonny Rollins, Neil Diamond and Barbara Cook will be saluted as the 2011 Kennedy Center Honorees. On Sunday the Washington Post Arts section will feature interviews with the artists, including Philip Kennicott’s talk with Ma. Arts Post is publishing some of the outtakes.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 02:00 PM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:36 PM ET, 12/01/2011

The internet gives you a hug

By Maura Judkis

Cheer up at The Nicest Place on the Internet.

By Maura Judkis | 12:36 PM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:11 PM ET, 12/01/2011

Movember is over, but beards are next

By Maura Judkis

The moustache-growing awareness-raising event brought in millions of dollars for cancer research.

By Maura Judkis | 12:11 PM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:59 AM ET, 12/01/2011

Merce Cunningham dancer Steve Paxton recalls early days

By Sarah Kaufman

Here, in his words, are some of the experiences of dancer and choreographer Steve Paxton, who performed with the company from 1961 to 1964.

By Sarah Kaufman | 11:59 AM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Dance

Posted at 10:51 AM ET, 12/01/2011

Are artists cheaters?

By Maura Judkis

A new study finds that creative people are more likely to act unethically.

By Maura Judkis | 10:51 AM ET, 12/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:06 PM ET, 11/30/2011

DIY holidays from the White House

By Amanda McGrath

A cake recipe and craft project pulled from the White House holiday decorations.

By Amanda McGrath | 07:06 PM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:18 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Artists recreate images of Challenger explosion in Legos

By Maura Judkis

Sean Cordeiro and Claire Healy are Australian artists whose first American show addresses space exploration.

By Maura Judkis | 03:18 PM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:18 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Sonny Rollins: Kennedy Center Honors Watch

By Jacqueline Trescott

Sonny Rollins, one of the 2011 Kennedy Center Honorees, was interviewed Tuesday night on the PBS Newshour. He discussed being labeled a “primitive.” Rollins, the great saxophonist, will be honored this weekend with Meryl Streep, Neil Diamond, Barbara Cook and Yo-Yo Ma.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 12:18 PM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:42 AM ET, 11/30/2011

PHOTOS: Art Basel Miami’s wildest art

By Maura Judkis

The American outpost of Switzerland’s famous fair is all grown up.

By Maura Judkis | 11:42 AM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:33 AM ET, 11/30/2011

NEA to lead federal task force on arts and well-being research

By Jacqueline Trescott

The National Endowment for the Arts announced Wednesday that the agency will lead a new federal task force that will emphasize research on the arts and well-being at all stages of life. The NEA has enlisted 13 federal departments, with the chief partner the Department of health and Human Services.

By Jacqueline Trescott | 11:33 AM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:02 AM ET, 11/30/2011

White House unveils Christmas decorations

By Jura Koncius

The third Obama-selected White House Christmas decor makes its debut.

By Jura Koncius | 10:02 AM ET, 11/30/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Arts Post: December, 2011

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