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.

Existential dread is deceptively simple in 'Mouthful of Birds'
Samanta Schweblin has a gift for treating the otherworldly with a matter-of-fact attitude; her new story collection proves that she's a master of elegant, uncanny fiction.
Heart of the Beast cuts operations as it struggles to find funding
The Minneapolis-based group known for its huge puppets and annual MayDay Parade said Wednesday it was cutting staff and programming and suggested its future was in doubt.
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist explores flaws of the justice system
In a new book, Edward Humes raises question after troubling question, pointing to frustrating subjectivity and the power of damning narratives that feed the ponderous process of criminal justice.
"O, Colored Earth" by Minnesota composer Steven Heitzeg was performed by the Minneapolis Youth Chorus during the inauguration ceremony Monday at the Fitzgerald Theater in downtown St. Paul.
'Rhapsody' upsets 'Star Is Born' at Globes
Thunder bolt and lightning rocked the 76th Golden Globes where a string of upsets culminated with the Freddie Mercury biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody" winning best picture, drama, over another movie about musicians: "A Star Is Born."
Childbirth injury led a new mom to start a parenting podcast 'to feel less alone'
Hillary Frank struggled after a childbirth injury left her in chronic pain for months. Her podcast 'The Longest Shortest Time,' and her book 'Weird Parenting Wins' aim to give other parents a voice.