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.

David Treuer on the republishing of his first novel, 'Little'
David Treuer’s first novel, “Little,” was republished by Graywolf Press in November. What does Treuer think of his inaugural work now, almost 30 years after it was first released? And how has he grown as both a writer and a person? That’s the conversation on this week’s Big Books and Bold Ideas with host Kerri Miller.
Cirque du Soleil taps talent from local circus school
Circus Juventas has been selected by Cirque du Soleil as part of their NexGen talent development program.
Ask a Bookseller: Hide
Sam Halter-Rainey at the Book Loft at German Village in Columbus, Ohio, knew right away what his book recommendation of the year was: the novel “Hide” by Kiersten White.
Art Hounds: Rural artists reveal a complex world
“Field Notes: 7 Truths about the Rural” highlights rural Minnesota artists and issues for an urban audience at Form+Content Gallery in Minneapolis. “Spiked!” brings music, comedy and holiday cheer to the Granada Theater in Minneapolis over the next two weeks. Four female photographers stretch and innovate the form in “Surface Tension” at Olson Gallery at Bethel University.
Christine McVie, Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter, dies at 79
Her death was announced on the band’s social media accounts. No cause of death or other details were immediately provided, but a family statement said she “passed away peacefully at hospital this morning” with family around her after a “short illness.”
Anishinaabe author Linda LeGarde Grover on the power of stories to connect
Anishinaabe author Linda LeGarde Grover, Bois Forte Band, talks with host Cathy Wurzer about the power of stories to strengthen families and cultural connections. LeGarde is professor emeritus of American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota Duluth and her latest book is called “Gichigami Hearts.”
From the archives: David Treuer on 'The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee'
David Treuer’s first novel, “Little,” is being republished this month by Graywolf Press. MPR News host Kerri Miller will talk to him about that on Friday’s Big Books and Bold Ideas. In the meantime, enjoy this 2019 conversation between the two about Treuer’s award-winning book, “The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee.”
Pop sensation Dua Lipa has been granted Albanian citizenship
President Bajram Begaj recognized Lipa, the daughter of Albanian immigrants, for her musical talents and contribution to spreading international awareness of Albania.