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.

The Minnesota roots of Pixar's 'Soul'
Both co-directors of Pixar’s latest movie have Minnesota connections. It’s the story of a jazz musician’s struggle to get back to Earth after a fatal accident just minutes after getting a gig he’s been seeking his entire life. Like previous Pixar films, it works both on a child and adult level, and both Pete Docter and Kemp Powers say there is a certain amount of Minnesota in the film.
How Minnesota arts community adapted during pandemic 
When the pandemic closed live theater and music this year, many artists got creative. Guest host Euan Kerr spoke with listeners and local artists about the struggle and highlights of 2020. 
The Cube Critics on their top films of 2020
With most theaters closed and big screens unavailable, it was a weird year for movies. But our Cube Critics still found some treasures.
Local film giant Al Milgrom dies at 98
Al Milgrom taught film at the University of Minnesota and founded the U Film Society in the 1960s. In time, his efforts produced what became the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival. 
The Thread: Three books to expand scientific understanding
For this week’s Thread: Kerri Miller finishes a series this to give more attention to authors you might not have heard about, and would be great ideas for the holiday season. If you have someone in your life who loves science, here are some your last-minute, gift-giving recommendations!
Rescuing the plywood — and memorializing a movement
Among those who protested the police killing of George Floyd last spring were artists who expressed their grief and anger through painting. They created hundreds of murals on the plywood that Twin Cities businesses used to protect their windows during the civil unrest. With winter on the way, two young Black women are leading a major effort to preserve the artwork.
Penumbra Theatre's Sarah Bellamy on motherhood, theater and racial healing
Host Angela Davis talks with Penumbra Theatre’s artistic director Sarah Bellamy about her artistic journey and her expanded vision for Penumbra as a place where theater, wellness and social justice converge.
Ask a Bookseller: Let’s talk about money
Chuck Neal of Chapters Bookstore in Miami, Okla., recommended a nonfiction title on a ubiquitous topic this week: “Money: the True Story of a Made-up Thing,” by Jacob Goldstein of NPR’s Planet Money.