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.

Young Vietnamese church group spreads vibrant culture of lion dancing in Twin Cities
To celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Dragon, Minneapolis-based DTG Lions have been performing lion dancing, a traditional form of dance where two dancers move in sync to mimic a lion.
Pregame the Super Bowl with our favorite football fiction
Of course, leave it to the gigantic nerds at NPR to throw a literary tailgate ... but to thine own self be true, even if it means getting stuffed into your locker later this afternoon.
Art Hounds: Flamenco, sculpture and Indigenous writing
Art Hounds look at “The Conference of the Birds” from Zorongo Flamenco Dance Theatre, art by Martin Gonzales and an Indigenous Writer Series in Duluth.
Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift merchandise selling like hotcakes — including this ignitable cake by a Minnesota baker
There are ignitable cakes that burn away a Chiefs logo to reveal Swift’s image underneath. Sweatshirts are emblazoned with “Kelce’s Best Catch” and “Go Kansas City Swiftie.” It is part of what has been described as the Swift effect.
Virginia music teacher Annie Ray started an orchestra for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She just won a Grammy for music education, and a $10,000 grant for her school.