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.

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.
Jerry Seinfeld on staying home: 'At my dinner table, you're supposed to be funny'
The comedian says he's doing well under quarantine. He talked with NPR about comedy during a pandemic and his new Netflix standup special, “23 Hours to Kill.” "Humor is an essential survival quantity."
A big, complicated family — and their mistakes — in 'All Adults Here'
Emma Straub's new novel is about a woman who realizes, at age 68, that there are a lot of things she wishes she'd done differently in her life — and the choices and mistakes that shape her family.
Find a little comfort in food and art this weekend
The stay-at-home order has been extended until May 18, but there's still plenty you can do. The weather this weekend lends itself to great opportunities to get outside. And once you're done enjoying the sun, check out some of our comfort food recipes.
Acme still offering laughs — quarantine-style
With COVID-19 preventing social gatherings, Acme Comedy Company is offering virtual shows via Zoom.