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.

Art Hounds: Revisiting roots
The “Rooted Legacy” photo exhibit from Urban Roots, by and of Hmong-American youth, is on view at Indigenous Roots in St. Paul. Bold Choice Theatre presents the original country western musical “Sundown at the Jasper Jewel” at the Duluth Playhouse and “Off Book” opens Saturday at HUGE Improv Theater.  
11 books to look forward to in 2024
The first few months of the year are stacked with exciting and interesting reads. Get ready for big swings from old pros and exciting new debuts.
Cracking the big time: A giant attraction for a nutcracker-happy town
Luverne is enhancing its tourism appeal with the world's tallest 65-foot nutcracker statue, led by local business owner Vance Walgrave, aiming to attract interstate travelers with this unique landmark.
'Steamboat Willie' is now in the public domain. What does that mean for Mickey Mouse?
A 1928 movie featuring the first appearance of Mickey Mouse enters public domain on Jan. 1. But creative and commercial access to the character is complicated by both copyright and trademark law.
Q&A: Documentary looks at 2013 Hopkins High School walkout
Independent journalist Ralph L. Crowder III has directed a documentary, “Before Black Lives Mattered, the Kids Marched for Education.” He aims to highlight the influence the 2013 walkout had in a larger conversation about equality in education, as well as correct the narrative from media coverage at the time.
Crow Wing County commissioners plan to object to new state flag
Crow Wing County Commissioner Paul Koering said he’s heard a lot of displeasure from his constituents about the flag redesign. The county board plans to vote on a resolution at its next meeting on Jan. 2, which it will send to Gov. Tim Walz and legislative leaders.