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.

Rethinking roads
In his new book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet,” environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb illustrates how roads that are helpful for humans can be disastrous for wildlife. How can we design transportation that’s good for all?
Why your brain finds Spotify Wrapped so irresistible
Spotify Wrapped endures despite privacy concerns surrounding the data it collects from users. But experts say our continued excitement around the year-end aggregation is in our human nature.
Pantone's color of the year is 'Peach Fuzz'
The color consultancy says the "gentle" peach tone highlights our desire for closeness, compassion and well-being. The orange-pink hue is meant to bring comfort and beauty to a digital world.
Art Hounds: Holiday recommendations
It’s a holiday line-up this week for Art Hounds. La Grande Bande presents a French Baroque Christmas in St. Peter and St. Paul this weekend, St. Croix Valley Chamber Chorale performs its Christmas concert this weekend in Stillwater, and Trekkies unite for the play “It’s an Honorable Life,” a Klingon take of the George Bailey classic, at Mounds Theatre in St. Paul. 
‘We’re not hiding’: Trans Voices Cabaret debuts in Minneapolis
Hal Sansone directs the Minneapolis Trans Voices Cabaret, a theater production featuring entirely transgender and nonbinary participants, highlighting diverse trans experiences and showcasing their talent in a politically supportive Minnesota.
Local musician celebrating Hanukkah with song
Musician Sarina Partridge teaches original songs, speaking to the themes of Hanukkah, for community singing.