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.

Author Brian Selznick explores nature's point of view in the 500 pages of 'Big Tree'
Acclaimed novelist and storyteller Brian Selznick's new project is big — really big. It's a 550 page illustrated novel aimed at children of all ages detailing the life of a massive sycamore tree.
Announcing the winner of the 2023 Tiny Desk Contest
Nearly 6,000 independent artists submitted to this year's Tiny Desk Contest. Meet the Utah band that rose to the top.
World-class conductor now making beer for a cause
William Eddins’ music career has taken him around the world as an orchestra conductor. Now he hopes to support music education for young people in the Twin Cities with his St. Paul brewery MetroNOME. MPR News guest host Euan Kerr talks with Eddins about music, beer and the brewery’s mission.
VanVan, 4, raps about her ABCs and 123s
Meet VanVan, the four-year-old rapper who is giving Nicki Minaj and Doja Cat a run for their money. She's getting millions of views on TikTok and Instagram.
Photos: Black Fashion Week's first Minnesota Met Gala
The Minnesota Met Gala, organized by Black Fashion Week, showcased local talent and designs, aiming to establish an annual event resembling the iconic Met Gala in New York City.
'Yellowface' takes white privilege to a sinister level
R.F. Kuang's first foray outside fantasy is a well-executed, gripping, fast-paced novel about the nuances of the publishing world when an author is desperate enough to do anything for success.
How a mother and her daughters created an innovative Indian dance company
Ragamala Dance Company is the life work of Ranee Ramaswamy — and now her adult daughters, Aparna and Ashwini. Creative work can be lonely, Aparna says, and having "built-in companions" is a gift.