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.

MN Shortlist, Aug. 15-21: Magicians return, Finnish folk tales in puppetry and more
MN Shortlist is your weekly curated roundup of recommended events from MPR News, highlighting standout performances, exhibits and gatherings around the region.
A photo of her grandmother in moccasins sparked Cindy Godin Hamilton’s artistic awakening
Cindy Godin Hamilton’s artistic and cultural awakening came in her adult years. Now her solo exhibit at the Warroad RiverPlace Gallery includes hand-stitched mittens, mukluks and gauntlets featuring intricately beaded animals and flowers, as well as oil and pastel paintings of Native faces garbed in traditional regalia.
Minnesota booksellers share their favorite beach reads
MPR News reached out to Minnesota booksellers across to the state to get their recommendations on the best beach reads to add to your TBR this summer.
In conversation with McKnight Distinguished Artist Carolyn Holbrook
Carolyn Holbrook is an author and arts advocate who has founded three arts organizations over the years, all designed to create space for writers and amplify the voices of writers of color.
Taylor Swift announces 12th studio album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’
Taylor Swift has announced her 12th studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl.” The full-length release announced Tuesday follows her last original album, 2024’s “The Tortured Poets Department.”
The changing media landscape
From streaming shake-ups to shrinking newsrooms, how we get news and entertainment is shifting fast. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with a media analyst and a pop culture critic about what’s changing and why it matters. 
Buying a pop album on vinyl? You might be paying for a fraction of the music
Fans who pre-ordered the new albums by Lil Wayne and The Weekend on vinyl got a rude awakening: More than half the songs that appeared on the streaming version were missing on the LP.
Tamara Aupaumut awarded the Jim Denomie Memorial Scholarship
The annual award is given to an artist who exemplifies a commitment to excellence, generosity, and engagement with community. “I'm always just trying to pay that forward,” said Tamara Aupaumut.