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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.

Best ads of the year return to the Walker Art Center

Best ads of the year return to the Walker Art Center

This year, you can catch the best in advertising in Minneapolis once again as the British Arrows Awards make their in-person screening return to the Walker Art Center. Clare Donald and Jani Guest, co-chairs of the British Arrows board of directors, joined host Cathy Wurzer from London to talk about the show and British advertising.
by Cathy Wurzer and Melissa Townsend

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Song of the Day: 'Motion of Love' by the Gene Loves Jezebel

Get your hairspray. Wednesday’s Song of the Day comes from Pat Brickson’s “Mix Tape” show, produced in Thief River Falls. His theme this week is ‘80s British new wave.
by Cathy Wurzer and Kelly Gordon

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We just wanted a report on Spotify Wrapped. Siri had other plans.

We just wanted a report on Spotify Wrapped. Siri had other plans.

Our producer Alex Cheng was trying to bring us a report on Spotify Wrapped — but then Siri woke up on his phone and cut in with some stats of her own. Turns out, Siri can be kind of mean.
by Cathy Wurzer and Alex Cheng

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What’s your Minnesota holiday tradition?

What’s your Minnesota holiday tradition?

Minnesota’s holiday traditions are as unique and varied as the people who call the state home. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with a local historian and an author about making merry in Minnesota. Where did our traditions originate, and why are they important?
by Angela Davis and Samantha Matsumoto

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Midtown Global Market celebrates its 15th anniversary — with a cookbook

Midtown Global Market celebrates its 15th anniversary — with a cookbook

The Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis is celebrating its 15th anniversary, and for the first time ever, the chefs and business owners who fill the bustling market are putting together a cookbook. Trung Pham, one of the original vendors at the market, joined host Cathy Wurzer to talk about his story and the story of the market.
by Cathy Wurzer, Lindsay Guentzel and Alex Cheng

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Song of the Day: 'First Time Around' by New Salty Dog

Monday’s Song of the Day comes from Will Moore, the music director at WTIP in Grand Marais, Minn., — so you know it features some great Northland sounds.
by Cathy Wurzer and Kelly Gordon

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Kennedy Center honors creative excellence in the arts at annual gala

Kennedy Center honors creative excellence in the arts at annual gala

Motown founder Berry Gordy, opera star Justino Díaz, singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, entertainer Bette Midler and television impresario Lorne Michaels were among those celebrated this weekend.
by Elizabeth Blair

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