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.

New books this week: War, murder and Lionel Richie
This week’s notable book releases promise a veritable potpourri of death — and a celebration of life from one of America's most ubiquitous singers.
PEN America warns of rise in books ‘systematically removed from school libraries’
A new report says that the number of books being challenged or removed from public schools across the country has risen exponentially in the past two years. “A Clockwork Orange” tops their list.
Award-winning Owamni to bring Indigenous cuisine to Guthrie Theater
Owamni, the James Beard Award-winning restaurant founded by chef Sean Sherman, will move in spring 2026 to the Guthrie Theater’s long-vacant riverfront restaurant space in downtown Minneapolis.
Taylor Swift popularized fighting for masters. Are more artists getting ownership?
Taylor Swift turned masters ownership from a behind-the-scenes conversation into a mainstream debate about artist autonomy. But how has that fight influenced other artists in the music industry?
Latin superstar Bad Bunny will headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show
The National Football League, Apple Music and Roc Nation made the announcement during halftime of Sunday night's game between the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys.
Ask a Bookseller: ‘Mafalda: Book One’ by Quino
Timothy Otte of Wild Rumpus Books recommends “Mafalda: Book One” by Quino