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.

‘The best season yet’: Timberwolves fan and author on finding hope in the recent losses
The last two Timberwolves games brought back an all too familiar feeling for Minnesota sports fans. Author and fan Hanif Abdurraqib talked with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer about why he thinks the Timberwolves may still have a shot.
In honor of Mother’s Day, here’s ‘Mother Play’ — which gestated for 40 years
Playwright Paula Vogel is known not just for her work on Broadway — but for the generations of famous playwrights whose careers she has nurtured. “Mother Play,” starring Jessica Lange, is about her own mother.
Switzerland’s Nemo wins Eurovision 2024 in a year of protests
The Swiss singer and rapper was one of two nonbinary artists in the finals at this year's event held in Malmo, Sweden. Meanwhile, protesters called for Israel's disqualification from the contest.
Cube Critics discuss ‘Manhunt’ and ‘Monkey Man’
Cube Critics Regina Medina and Max Sparber discuss a miniseries about the killing of Lincoln and a psychedelic action film set in India.
New Minnesota music round-up: Twankling, punky Americana from Phantom Fields
New Minnesota music roundup is a bimonthly collection of new releases by Minnesota musicians or musicians with strong Minnesota connections. We focus on music that might otherwise fly beneath the radar, including — but not limited to — folk, blues, country, experimental and jazz.