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.

Appetites: Oh deer! Venison meatballs with cherry BBQ sauce
Do you know what you're going to do with your deer after hunting season is over? Chef Jon Wipfli has some suggestions.
Photographer Pete Souza reflects on 8 years (and 1.9 million photos) of Obama
As the chief official White House photographer for President Obama, Souza sometimes shot more than 2,000 photos a day. "I was there all the time," he says. His new book is "Obama: An Intimate Portrait."
Grammy-winning Red House was formed 34 years ago and is home to artists such as The Wailin' Jennys, John Gorka and The Cactus Blossoms.
'Radio Free Vermont' offers a modest proposal for resistance
Activist Bill McKibben answers his own call for topical fiction with "Radio Free Vermont," a gently surreal tale about a septuagenarian troublemaker who inadvertently sparks a secession movement.
From slaughterhouse to bus depot to rock club: The history of First Ave
The stars painted on the side of First Avenue in downtown Minneapolis only capture a fraction of the legendary venue's history. Chris Riemenschneider's new book dives into club's storied past.
The local company has been home to Greg Brown, The Wailin' Jennys and other well-known artists.
Joni Mitchell turns 74 years old
It's Joni Mitchell's birthday Tuesday. A new biography by David Yaffe came out earlier this year, "Reckless Daughter: A Portrait of Joni Mitchell."
Linnee, who was recently diagnosed with brain cancer, died Monday morning at Walker Methodist Care Suites in Edina. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Linnee grew up in the Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park, where she worked on the school newspaper.