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 once famous, trailblazing Minnesota nature writer you’ve probably never heard of
Helen Hoover was a Chicago scientist who moved to a remote cabin on the Gunflint Trail in the 1950s. She wrote several popular books about her experiences and the wildlife she observed. But her fame led her to move away and she largely faded from memory. 
Harris book paints Walz as authentic, but she cringed at his VP debate performance
A new book by former Vice President Kamala Harris offers her view of last year’s presidential race and an inside peek at her dealings with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who was her Democratic running mate in the quick-turn campaign.
ABC ends Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension and his show will return Tuesday
ABC will reinstate Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show after suspending it due to his comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The network announced Monday that the show would return on Tuesday.
On a northern Minnesota island, arts and inspiration find safe harbor
A small island on Rainy Lake near the Canadian border was once home to a legendary Minnesota environmentalist. Now it’s a place for introspection and inspiration for artists and nature lovers.