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.

A shared fast, a shared feast: Ramadan's lessons in unity
During Ramadan, Minnesota's Muslim community participates in diverse Iftar meals that foster unity among the Muslim community — and beyond. The practice offers opportunities for spiritual reflection, hospitality and interfaith work, highlighting Islam's rich cultural diversity in America.
Composing a season: Underrepresented composers to be spotlighted at Minnesota Orchestra
The Minnesota Orchestra has announced its 2023-24 season with new music director Thomas Søndergård. The upcoming season will include programming for children, spotlighting underrepresented composers and live accompaniment to movies.
MNspin makes Minnesota music widely available through the power of the library
Move over bookworms, the library is the new music scene in Hennepin County. Through MNspin, an ongoing collection of music from the Hennepin County Library, patrons can enjoy Minnesota-made tunes.
Ask a Bookseller: 'The Poetics of Wrongness'
Evelyn Bauer of Papercuts Bookshop recommends “The Poetics of Wrongness” by poet Rachel Zucker. She challenges outdated paradigms of motherhood, feminism and poetics.
Veterinarian Karen Fine on the special role pets play in our lives
Animal Month continues on Big Books and Bold Ideas. This week, host Kerri Miller talks with veterinarian Karen Fine. Her new book, “The Other Family Doctor,” is a tribute to the furry, fuzzy, feathery and sometimes scaly creatures we include as members of the family.