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.

November 30, 2018 4:00 AM

Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera promises a big show at the Ordway

In breadth, scope and sheer numbers, the Afro-Latin Renaissance lives up to its name.

by Euan Kerr

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November 29, 2018 12:44 PM

5 Things: A family game, a merry murderer, and a return to Bach

Every week, Stephanie Curtis chooses five things to watch, read, or experience. This week, a family game, a merry murderer, and a return to Bach.

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November 29, 2018 10:08 AM

Why the Beatles' 'Hey Jude' has no drums for nearly a minute

It's been 50 years since the Beatles' "Hey Jude" was number one on the Billboard pop chart. But when the song begins, where's Ringo?

by Cathy Wurzer

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November 29, 2018 4:00 AM

Problematic St. Paul City Hall murals to be covered -- sometimes

St. Paul and Ramsey County officials have come up with a plan to make the art in council chambers less white-male-centric -- without removing historic murals that have raised concerns.

by Tim Nelson

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November 29, 2018 4:00 AM

Twin Cities teen author aims to help children connect with dementia

Because of the stigma around the disease, Edie Weinstein said many young people may not feel comfortable around people with dementia. But she hopes her book will help bring about greater understanding for those with dementia.

by Cathy Wurzer and Austen Macalus

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November 29, 2018 4:00 AM

Art Hounds: Three shows on the refugee experience

Whether it's fleeing civil war in Somalia, pleading for asylum at the border or being viewed as the enemy in your new home, these three shows each have something to say about immigration.

by Marianne Combs

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November 29, 2018 12:00 AM

'Come with Me' lays bare the risks and regrets of our online lives

Helen Schulman splices together an old-school family drama with high-tech fantasy in her new novel, a rich, closely observed story about regrets and risk-taking in the Internet age.

by Maureen Corrigan

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November 29, 2018 12:00 AM

Life after sudden death in 'Widower's Notebook'

When Jonathan Santlofer's wife died five years ago, he was thrown into a 'fugue state' of grief. Sketching her portrait from old photographs has helped him stay close to her.

by Terry Gross

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November 29, 2018 12:00 AM

Gorgeous 'Black Future Month' tracks a writer's development

N.K. Jemisin's new story collection is a story in itself, a chronicle of her career that has the seeds of her award-winning novels, but also lovely and thought-provoking stand-alone work.

by Amal El-Mohtar