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.

New book is ‘love letter to Prince and Purple Rain’ ahead of 40th anniversary
Prince’s story is told by Minneapolis-based music journalist Andrea Swensson, host of the Official Prince Podcast and a Minnesota Book Award winner. She calls her new book, “Prince and Purple Rain: 40 Years,” a “love letter” to his legacy.
What will AI mean for art, artists and musicians?
MPR News guest host Chris Farrell and his guests on what the rise of artificial intelligence means for artists, musicians, actors and writers. 
UMD Tweed Museum of Art announces new director
Julie Delliquanti has been named director of the Tweed Museum of Art at the University of Minnesota Duluth starting June 10.
Ask a Bookseller: ‘Aednan: An Epic’ by Linnea Axelsson
Darcie Shultz of Books and Burrow in Pittsburgh, Kan., highly recommends Linnea Axelsson’s novel in verse “Aednan: An Epic.”
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.