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: Mid-century modern weekend
Art Hounds recommend an Art-A-Whirl event, Tammy Ortegon’s fine art retrospective and a group show of North Shore artists.
Love taxidermy, odd art and mad clowns? Check out this circus-like expo
The Oddities & Curiosities Expo is bringing about 150 vendors selling gothic and dark-fantasy items, a “mad clown” museum, sideshow acts and a taxidermy class to Minneapolis on Saturday, May 20.
Want to create a stronger bond with your kids? First relinquish control
It may sound counterintuitive, but if you want to take charge as a parent, stop trying to control your child, says psychologist and author Shefali Tsabary. Her new book, "The Parenting Map," lays out a step-by-step guide for creating conscious parent-child relationships.
Stories in 'Sidle Creek' offer an insider look at Appalachia
The 22 stories in Sidle Creek charm, surprise, and convey a deep love of the people and place — the Appalachian plateau of western Pennsylvania — that author Jolene McIlwain has long called home.
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.