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.

Betsey Johnson talks fashion, love and motherhood in self-titled memoir
The designer who has been pushing fashion boundaries for decades reveals more about the woman behind the brand — the whimsy and fun, but also difficult times, from relationships to health challenges.
Daily dose of sweetness: Brainerd arts group distributes 'creativity kits' to local kids
“We already have pictures from some of the kids who have created art with the materials that were in the bags, and seeing their little smiling faces pays for the entire cost of putting them together,” said Crossing Arts Alliance’s Lisa Jordan.
'Apsara Engine' doesn't break the graphic novel rules — it ignores them
Bishakh Som's new comics collection is uncanny and hard to categorize — science-fictiony, mythic and humanistic, without making any particular assumptions about where humans as a species are going.
The power of music during challenging times
Music is one tool people are using to connect during social distancing. We explore the power of music and talk with listeners to create the ultimate playlist.
A guide to things to do at home this weekend
After you’ve enjoyed this nice weekend weather, we’ve got some suggestions on movies, podcasts and activities you can do while staying at home or social distancing.
Singing surgeon: Mayo's Dr. Elvis cuts EP to aid COVID-19 fund
Two years after becoming an unlikely singing sensation, the 34-year-old doctor with a golden voice is releasing his first-ever EP on Friday and all the proceeds will be donated to The Center of Disaster Philanthropy COVID-19 Response Fund.