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.

Documentary about Indigenous activist Leonard Peltier opens Twin Cities film festival
The Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival opened with “Free Leonard Peltier” on Wednesday evening. The documentary revisits the case of Indigenous rights activist Leonard Peltier and the 1975 murder of two FBI agents on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
Using improv to improve communication
MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about how improv skills can help us have better conversations about divisive topics.
MN Shortlist: April 3-9
MN Shortlist is your weekly curated roundup of recommended events from MPR News, highlighting standout performances, exhibits and gatherings around the region.
‘Secret Warriors’ sheds light on Japanese American involvement in WWII
Rick Shiomi’s new play “Secret Warriors,” now running at the History Theatre in St. Paul, explores the overlooked contributions of Japanese American soldiers and interpreters during World War II, set against the backdrop of internment and racism.
10 books NPR is looking forward to this spring
A famed graphic novelist returns! A Southern-gothic crime-thriller inspired by “The Godfather!” An extremely in depth biography of Mark Twain! And more!
Here are the Minnesotans named as James Beard Awards finalists
Among the announced finalists are five Minnesotans or Minnesota institutions, including three Minnesota chefs in the Best Chef Midwest category: Shigeyuki Furukawa, Diane Moua and Karyn Tomlinson.
Parting Thoughts: Educator turned entrepreneur ‘wore his success quietly’
Richard Fontaine went from small-town kid to big-city educator and stocking shelves at a bookstore for extra money before he helped build a large videogame retailer. But one thing never changed: his love of books.