Arts and Culture

MPR News has you covered with news and stories about local art and culture happenings across Minnesota.

Art Hounds: Art Hounds are members of the Minnesota arts community who look beyond their own work to highlight what's exciting in local art. You can explore arts events here, or become an Art Hound today.

Art Reviews: Our arts team offers insight on the latest in theater, music, visual arts and more. We explore the breadth of creativity and innovation found throughout Minnesota, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the works and artists shaping our cultural landscape. Read more here.

Art Friend: Everyone needs an art friend. Art Friend is a new segment with our arts team. Art spaces can feel exclusive and art can be confusing, obtuse, and even boring. But, especially with the right context, everyone can be a critic. So let us be your guide- your Art Friend. Listen or read Art Friend stories here.

Our arts coverage is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment's Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Trolls in the northern Minnesota woods with a message
A Danish artist is building a half dozen large trolls in and around Detroit Lakes this summer. Thomas Dambo wants to create a whimsical experience, showcase recycling and encourage people to protect natural resources.
Cube Critics talk about ‘The Fall Guy’ and ‘Abigail’
Cube Critics watch a movie that is a love letter to stunt performers and a film about a kidnapping where — oops, the kidnapped child is a vampire.
Guthrie Theater announces almost $4 million deficit
The Guthrie Theater announced a $3.8 million deficit for fiscal year 2023 despite higher ticket sales and donor support, with challenges attributed to rising operational expenses, pandemic impacts and an aging building.
Review: ‘MJ the Musical,’ starting something at the Orpheum
“MJ the Musical” showcases Michael Jackson’s life through a script by Lynn Nottage, featuring flashbacks, dream sequences, and iconic songs, but carefully avoids Jackson’s most notorious controversy.
 Minnesota lawmakers OK school policy changes on cell phones, book bans, literacy
The bill approved Wednesday also requires students be offered mental health instruction. It heads to Gov. Tim Walz’s desk for signing. Some Republicans criticized the measure as unnecessarily burdensome on schools.
Paint it black? A beloved community mural is painted over in northeast Minneapolis
Gustavo Lira’s mural in northeast Minneapolis — symbolizing cultural embrace and funded by a Great Streets grant —— was painted over without his knowledge, sparking community outrage and highlighting the need for better communication and protections for public art.