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: New work that highlights Yiddish poetry and Asian American voices
A world premiere by composer Anat Spiegel sets Yiddish poetry to music; the Great Lakes Academy of Fine Art celebrates its first student show in Duluth; and Theater Mu’s Un(Scene) short plays festival tackles violence against Asian Americans.
A sweet way to celebrate Eid: Annual community candy drive is back
The St. Cloud community comes together to distribute candy to children for Eid al-Fitr, a two- to four-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
40th Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival launches as a hybrid
The 2021 Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival launches its second pandemic run Thursday with "Summer of Soul." It’s a documentary critics say could be a big commercial hit this summer. Organizers are building on lessons learned from last year when the festival was entirely virtual.
'Son of the Storm' explores power and its transformations
Suyi Davies Okungbowa's new novel seems like a familiar epic fantasy setup — in fact, it's anything but. “Son of the Storm” explores power: Who has it, who wants it, and who's shut out from it.
For Twin Cities rapper Nur-D, another step forward
All of a sudden, Matt Allen found himself caring for injured and teargassed protesters in Minneapolis last year. The enduring experience found its way into his sunny music.