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.

Kate Beaton's new graphic memoir is about the dark type of job you take for money
Kate Beaton, known for her popular webcomic “Hark a Vagrant,” is out now with her new graphic memoir “Ducks” — which dives into the day-to-day life of working in the Canadian oil sands.
White House correspondent April Ryan on her new book 'Black Women Will Save The World'
April Ryan is the longest-serving Black female White House correspondent, with a 25-year tenure. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with Ryan about her new book, "Black Women Will Save The World: An Anthem."
French writer Annie Ernaux awarded Nobel Prize in literature
This year’s Nobel Prize in literature has been awarded to French author Annie Ernaux. The 82-year-old was cited for “the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory,” the Nobel committee said. 
Pandemic-delayed 'Edward Tulane' opera premieres, feeling stronger
Kate DiCamillo's "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane" has grown into its title — at least when it comes to the story of the novel's pandemic-delayed operatic adaptation. It finally opens at the Minnesota Opera this weekend, and its creators believe it's now a better show for a recovering world.
Art Hounds: St. Paul gallery presents art from three Native artists
The American Craft Made marketplace opens at St. Paul’s RiverCentre, as the new version of the American Craft Council show, on hiatus since 2019. The Art Hounds also suggest you check out a celebration of Indigenous art at Metro State University’s Gordon Parks Gallery and two exhibits at Groveland Gallery in Minneapolis.
Innovative Minnesota musician Douglas Ewart wins recognition for transforming work
The McKnight Foundation honored Ewart’s years of community engagement and artistry with this year’s Distinguished Artist Award, which carries with it a $100,000 prize. He’s known for his support of young artists in Minneapolis.