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.

August 20, 2019 1:30 PM

As immigrants stream to suburbs, leaders dig deep to meet their needs

In recent years, several first, second and even some third-ring suburbs in the Twin Cities have seen their populations of foreign-born residents spike. The latest census data has shown double-digit increases over the past two to three decades in many communities.

by Mike Moen

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August 20, 2019 8:35 AM

If these 2 titles remind you of masterful suspense novels, they should

Laura Lippman's Lady in the Lake recollects Raymond Chandler's fourth Philip Marlowe novel and Ruth Ware's The Turn of the Key recalls Henry James' The Turn of the Screw. Happily, they both live up.

by Maureen Corrigan

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August 20, 2019 7:01 AM

Why do we find true crime fascinating? 'Savage Appetites' looks for an answer

With her well-researched, beautifully written book, Rachel Monroe addresses the desire to consume stories of murder and mayhem — and what it reflects about us and the world around us.

by Ilana Masad

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August 19, 2019 6:00 AM

What's hidden beneath the manor house? 'The Warlow Experiment'

What happens when one person controls the fate of many? Ghastly experiments like the one Alix Nathan lays out in her new novel, about a country gentleman who aspires to scientific prominence.

by Vikki Valentine

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August 19, 2019 4:00 AM

Fast food, the 494 strip and pickup basketball molded a sportswriter

Bloomington native Steve Rushin’s second memoir “Nights in White Castle” capture his teen years in the Twin Cities suburbs, and how they helped him capture his dream job as a Sports Illustrated staff writer.

by Euan Kerr

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August 18, 2019 9:00 AM

In 'Gods with a Little G,' the kids are alright

Tupelo Hassman's novel about a group of teenagers at loose ends in a tiny town run by Christian fundamentalists has some dark moments, but ultimately it's as heartwarming as it is beautifully written.

by Michael Schaub

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August 18, 2019 6:00 AM

'Black Card' wrings humor and pathos out of a serious situation

Chris L. Terry draws on his own experiences for this story about an unnamed biracial man whose attempts to hold on to both his white and black identities (and his gig in a punk band) cause a crisis.

by Jason Heller

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August 16, 2019 5:54 PM

'Easy Rider' star and writer Peter Fonda has died at age 79

Peter Fonda, the son of a Hollywood legend who became a movie star in his own right both writing and starring in counterculture classics like "Easy Rider," has died. He was 79.

by The Associated Press