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.

10 new books in June will transport you
With all that's required to reach “dream destinations” these days, another option is to walk to your local public library instead — and pick up one of these new books out in June set across time and place.
Road trip to Moorhead: A stroll with trolls in Detroit Lakes
Just off Highway 10, an three and a half hours north of the Twin Cities, enormous wooden trolls roam a sculpture garden in Detroit Lakes. They’re pieces by the Danish sculpture artist Thomas Dambo, and one comes with a message for the people of Minnesota.
Celebrating Prince: The artist and his impact
If you are a Prince fan, listen to hear MPR News host Angela Davis talk about his legacy and a five-day celebration to honor his music and life.
Ask a Bookseller: ‘Before the Hunt’ by Barry Lyga
John Shableski of The Otto Bookstore in Williamsport, Penn., recommends “Before the Hunt” by Barry Lyga.
Kate Bowler is not living her best life — and she's OK with that
Kate Bowler is not here to tell you how to live your best life. She is not going to push gratitude. She doesn’t even believe in the pursuit of happiness — unless you’re looking to be unhappy. But she does think subversive, counter-cultural, breathtaking joy can happen anyway.
Crime novel author says fictional Iowa hit man 'Gerry Sass' is just doing the best he can
Emily Bright interviewed visiting author Tiffany Hanssen about her new crime novel “My Name Was Gerry Sass” in advance of her May 28 reading at Once Upon a Crime Bookstore in Minneapolis.