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.

Minnesotans remember Twin Cities artist and activist Tou Ger Xiong
Colombian authorities on Wednesday were investigating the alleged kidnapping and killing of Minnesotan Tou Ger Xiong. He’s being remembered as a multifaceted community activist, motivational speaker, storyteller, comedian and rap artist.
Two beloved Christmas classics just joined the National Film Registry
Every year, the Librarian of Congress selects 25 movies to be added to the National Film Registry. This year, the list included “Home Alone” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Robert Skafte: 'He was the sweetest, kindest person'
Myron Johnson of Ballet of the Dolls remembers Robert Skafte, who was killed on Friday while working at Oak Grove Grocery.
From crayons to Capitol advocacy, a Minnesota flag enthusiast nears moment of triumph
Lee Herold was preaching good flag design long before anyone was even listening. Now, a state commission is about to choose a new Minnesota state flag. Herold, who owns a flag store in Rochester, said he's glad everyone is finally taking flag design seriously.
Miyazaki's 'The Boy and the Heron' is No. 1 at the box office, a first for the Japanese anime master
Japanese anime master Hayao Miyazaki’s is No. 1 at the North American box office for the first time in his decades-spanning career. According to studio estimates Miyazaki’s latest enchanting film “The Boy and the Heron” debuted with $12.8 million. 
Ask a Bookseller: ‘The Maniac’
Chris Miller of Broadway Books in Portland, Ore., recommends the novel “The Maniac” by Benjamín Labatut.
4 coffee table art books from 2023 that are a visual feast
This group ranges from a fabulous collection by contemporary, neurodiverse artists to Milton Glaser's pop art, and Aino and Alvar Aalto's Finnish modernist designs to a survey of Islamic architecture.