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.

Through personal testament, 'Why Religion?' explores belief in the 21st century
Distinguished scholar of Christianity Elaine Pagels sets out to explain why religion is still around today, through the lens of her lived tragedies -- the deaths of her son and husband 30 years ago.
'Great Buster' celebrates the legacy of a silent-film star
For a new documentary, the director Peter Bogdanovich brings a modern perspective to what he sees as a golden age of comedy.
Michelle Obama tells the story of 'Becoming' herself
The former first lady's new book is a story about her history, how that influenced who she is -- and learning to adapt after agreeing to let that life be hijacked by politics.
When she paints a river, the water colors her work
Artist Annie Hejny creates abstract paintings using water and sediment she gathers from Minnesota lakes and rivers.
'Single-use' is the 2018 word of the year, Collins Dictionary says
Collins' annual list of "new" words are meant to highlight and acknowledge the changing culture. They are often words that have been around, but have raised their profile recently.