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.

Alas poor Yorick, how can the show go on?
Even in an industry built on engaging people’s imaginations, it’s hard to picture what theater and other live performances will look like post-pandemic. Theaters and musicians say concerns about keeping audiences and performers safe will slow a return to normalcy.
Sounds of self-quarantine: Minnesota musicians share how they're doing and a song
Throughout this pandemic, MPR News has been asking Minnesota musicians to send us a song and an update on how they’re doing. Take a scroll and listen to some of the artists we’ve heard from so far.
Art Hounds: St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour moves online
Plus, Art Hounds recommend Leslie Vincent's jazz album and a portrait series of families staying at home.
Mpls. chefs, writer nominated for James Beard Awards
Three have been named finalists for the Best Chef: Midwest, and one for the Outstanding Pastry Chef category in the 2020 James Beard Awards.
How to say no: 'Anti-Guru' Sarah Knight suggests you do less and live more
Knight has written a series of books about "mental decluttering" — her latest is called “F*ck No!” "Most people will take no for an answer much more easily than you think they will," she says.
Love of literature — and Algeria — illuminates 'Our Riches'
Kaouther Adimi's novel tells the real-life story of Edmond Charlot, the Algerian bookseller and publisher who witnessed his country's independence struggle — and famously discovered Albert Camus.
Prince guitar, McCartney Beatles lyrics come up for auction
Julien's Auctions announced Monday that the auction taking place June 19 and 20 in Beverly Hills, Calif., and online will include a 1984 blue "cloud" guitar custom-made for Prince that he played in his prime period just after "Purple Rain." A purple suit, a pendant and a pair of boots from Prince will be for sale, too.
A flying photographer looks down on Earth in awe and sorrow
In his new book, “The Human Planet: Earth at the Dawn of the Anthropocene,” George Steinmetz offers a bird's-eye view of the mark humans have made on the global landscape.