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: Minnesota multimedia shows challenge viewers
In “Between the Stripes, Under the Stars” at St. Catherine University, 10 female artists explore American identity. The juried art show, “Trail Mix” at the Whit Gallery in St. Cloud celebrates the beauty of nature and the work to combat climate change. “Careful, May Fall Apart” by art therapist Lauren Callis explores love and loss at Pink Slip Gallery.
Shake it off? Parents come up short for Taylor Swift tickets
They were supposed to be birthday presents. They were supposed to be Christmas presents. They were supposed to be the most special of special treats for young fans of Taylor Swift.
'Running While Black' tells a new story about who belongs in the sport
In a new book, writer Alison Mariella Désir shares her journey into long distance running, reveals the hidden contributions of Black runners and calls for the sport to become more inclusive.
Ellen Stanley celebrates 20 years of her 'Womenfolk' show with an epic concert
Host Cathy Wurzer talks with Ellen Stanley, musician and host of KFAI’s show "Womenfolk” about music, her 20-year run on the radio, and the event celebrating it all happening on Nov. 20 at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis.
'Bring Her Home' filmmaker elevates stories of Native women lost but not forgotten
MPR News host Cathy Wurzer spoke Wednesday with filmmaker Leya Hale about “Bring Her Home,” Hale’s award winning documentary on the plight of missing and murdered Indigenous women. Twin Cities Public Television is streaming the film on its website this month.
It’s Jessie Burton week at Big Books and Bold Ideas. Enjoy a conversation from the archives, when host Kerri Miller talked with Burton about her runaway hit “The Miniaturist.” Then Friday, come back to hear a new discussion between the pair about “The House of Fortune,” which is a companion novel to “The Miniaturist” that was published earlier this year.
Obama’s former speechwriter reflects on time White House.
Cody Keenan served as former President Barack Obama’s chief speechwriter during the president’s time in the White House. In his new book, Keenan takes readers inside a pivotal 10-day period in Obama’s presidency.