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.

As pandemic continues, Minnesota nonprofits chart new course for the long term
The coronavirus pandemic has caused a cascade of canceled concerts, fundraisers and other events that support nonprofit groups across Minnesota. As stay-at-home orders continue, rural nonprofits are trying to plan and adapt to this changed world. 
The Thread: Armchair travels for when we’re stuck at home
Many of us have canceled spring getaways and are starting to wonder if we’ll be sticking close to home this summer too. Kerri Miller shares three books that will transport you far away from home.
'How To Feed A Dictator' spills the beans on 5 strongmen
For his new book, Witold Szablowski tracked down the chefs who fed autocrats like Pol Pot, Enver Hoxha and Idi Amin. He says the book isn't just about food, but about how dictatorships rise and grow.
Virus likely to delay events at new Waite Park amphitheater
Construction of Waite Park’s new amphitheater — The Ledge — is scheduled to be completed at the end of May. But it could be months before the $15 million amphitheater can be used for open-air concerts or community events.
Getting some blood on the page: Questions for Grady Hendrix
Hendrix's new novel, “The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires,” stars a group of determined women who band together to take on a suave supernatural threat in their community.
'Why We Swim' looks for answers in people and places across the globe
Author Bonnie Tsui reminds us that humankind once sprang from — and still seeks — water. "Even if we can't get in the water right now," she says, "the ocean will be waiting for us."
'Girl Gone Viral' is a peach of a read
In Alisha Rai's latest, a former model escapes unwanted viral fame by hiding out with her bodyguard, on his family's peach farm. It's packed with humor, drama — and a pair of very sexy eyebrows.
A story of how far people will go for love
Paulette Jiles, a National Book Award finalist, returns to familiar characters with her new celebrated Western.
The gift of a garden in troubled times
Gardening has long been a balm for the human soul. Landscape designer Rebecca Winn shares how her garden restored her after heartbreak.
For artist and author Vivek Shraya, the internet is now a canvas
The multidisciplinary artist has brought new visibility to Canada's trans community. Her new book, “The Subtweet,” chronicles a friendship between two musicians that implodes under online pressures.