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: R&B, country and old time radio drama
Art Hounds celebrates live musical and drama performances for every taste this weekend, with shows by country singer Trevor McSpadden, soul and roots performer Annie Mack, and the Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society’s holiday special.
Envisioning the evil of the Holocaust at the Minneapolis Institute of Art
In his monumental “Nazi Drawings” from the 1960s, Mauricio Lasansky confronted the atrocities of the Holocaust. Those works are now on view once again at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and two of the people behind the exhibition told host Cathy Wurzer about the show’s power and relevance.
Behind the scenes of the Guthrie's 'A Christmas Carol,' back on stage after a year away
“A Christmas Carol” has returned to the Guthrie stage, and for many of the actors, it’s their first time back on stage — with a live audience — since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Minnesota Now went behind the curtain to listen in on an intimate conversation between two of the actors, Regina Marie Williams and Rajané Katurah, about what it’s like to be back.
In 'Tastes Like War,' a daughter reckons with her mother's schizophrenia
Cho was a teenager when her mother began to exhibit signs of mental illness. Later, as an adult, she learned more about the trauma her mom experienced, both during and after the Korean War.
Author Ann Patchett on friendship, time and the idea of 'enoughness'
Ann Patchett is out with a new collection of essays. Join Kerri Miller this Friday for a wide-ranging conversation with Patchett about being present, the gift of friendship, and how the pandemic can reveal what matters most.
Vicente Fernández, revered Mexican singer, dies at 81
Fernández was largely considered the last living legend of the Mexican ranchera, the style of song deeply rooted in the values and traditions of rural Mexico. Over a six-decade career, his voice became synonymous with Mexico itself.
Anne Rice, author of gothic novels, dead at 80
Anne Rice, the gothic novelist widely known for her bestselling novel “Interview With the Vampire,” died Saturday at the age of 80.
Return to a world of caring and kindness, in 'Amos McGee Misses the Bus'
In Erin and Philip Stead's follow-up to 2010's “A Sick Day for Amos McGee,” the fastidious zookeeper gets help from his animal friends to finish his chores, so they can go on an exciting outing.