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.

4 lives are upended by an impulsive kiss in the epic novel ‘Buckeye’
Patrick Ryan’s novel focuses on two married couples and stretches from pre-WWII to the close of the 20th century, capturing both the sweep of history and the mundane particularity of everyday life.
New books out today: A Dan Brown thriller, John Prine bio and World Wide Web memoir
New books this week include “Secret of Secrets” — the sixth installment of “The Da Vinci Code” saga, plus a tech memoir from Tim Berners-Lee and a career-spanning anthology from Terry McMillan.
What changes at WCCO, KARE and elsewhere say about the state of local news
Neal Justin, pop culture critic at the Minnesota Star Tribune, joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition to unpack what the changes at some Twin Cities TV stations could mean for viewers.
Mike Osterholm reflects on lessons from the pandemic in 'The Big One'
Public health leaders, researchers, doctors and nurses saved a lot of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. But serious errors were also made. In his new book, University of Minnesota epidemiologist Mike Osterholm pulls no punches on why last time may just be a practice run for “The Big One.”
MN Shortlist, Sept. 5-11: Butterflies, zombies, cowboys
MN Shortlist is your weekly curated roundup of recommended events from MPR News, highlighting standout performances, exhibits and gatherings around the region. This week’s offerings include music by Rachael Kilgour, the Minneapolis Monarch Festival and more.
Crop art travels from the State Fair to the Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Art will showcase award-winning and notable crop art from this year’s State Fair in the exhibition “Cream of the Crop: A Minnesota Folk Art Showcase,” Sept. 6-28, highlighting the artistry, wit and cultural resonance of the seed-based works.