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.

Journalist Michele Norris on what Americans really think about race  
MPR News host Angela Davis talks with journalist and Minnesota native Michele Norris about her new book, “Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race and Identity.”  
TikTok removes music from UMG artists, including Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift
TikTok has removed all Universal Music Group music from its platform, according to a spokesperson for the company. UMG argues, among other things, that TikTok is not compensating its artists fairly.
Fergus Falls hosts U.S. premiere of documentary about an international scandal which touched the town
In 2018, allegations of fabricated stories rocked the prestigious German magazine Der Spiegel. The Minnesota city of Fergus Falls found itself a victim of an unscrupulous journalist. Now the town will host the U.S. premiere of a documentary about the scandal called “Inventing Truth: The Relotius Affair.”  
Art Hounds: Poetry, weavings and 'Cabaret'
Patrick Cabello Hansel releases a new poetry book. Theatre 55 stages “Cabaret.” An art exhibit at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum shows how water connects us.
'It's a fickle thing, music': Artist Laamar on recent wins and why he writes songs
Laamar was named one of 2023’s Best New Bands by First Avenue and recently played with other Minnesota greats such as the Cactus Blossoms and Dan Wilson of Semisonic.