In-between The Lines

I’m writing about secrets in two sections today, since the first will probably offend the tastes of some readers. Section one: Today, folks from the Rochester Art Center (yes, all the way down in Rochester) are talking about the influence of graffiti and skateboard culture on contemporary art. Scott Sulen, a young artist and, if my memory serves, a U of M graduate, is organizing many of the Art Center’s educational events these days. And he seems to have a nose for trends. One of the most interesting (I wouldn’t say beautiful) pieces of public art I’ve seen in recent weeks was on a utility box along the Cedar Bike Trail–a colorful spray-painting of a ghoul.

Section two: Otherwise, it’s Thursday, which is always a great night for theater since the tickets are cheaper. Plus, it’s the holiday season. My picks for the best Christmas shows are still Black Nativity, for the singing, and the unfortunately named Lutefisk Champ, for the laughs. Both play tonight.