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.

Tom Petty, down-to-earth rock superstar, dies at 66
The rock superstar died Monday night at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles a day after he suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu, Calif., a spokesperson said.
Stephen and Owen King on the horror of a world without women in 'Sleeping Beauties'
What if every woman on earth went to sleep and never woke up, leaving only men to run things? That's the horror at the center of "Sleeping Beauties," the new novel from Stephen King and his son Owen.
Bud Buck reported 'mass hysteria' at final broadcast of the Morning Show
During the final broadcast of the Morning Show on MPR, correspondent Bud Buck, a character created by one of the show's hosts, desperately tried to use the occasion to launch his TV career.
Jeffrey Eugenides' 'Fresh Complaint' makes for absorbing fiction
While they tend towards traditional rather than edgy, the stories in "Fresh Complaint" will remind readers what they like about Eugenides' writing: His sensitivity and compassion for flawed people.
Getting the most out of pre-K, 'The Most Important Year' in school
About 1.5 million 4-year-olds started preschool this fall and parents are wondering: How do I know my child is in a high-quality program? A new book offers some answers.
Seven fantasy and sci-fi recommendations from a diehard reader
Bookseller Jude Feldman works at Borderlands Books in San Francisco, the city's destination for genre thrills. She has seven recommendations for readers eager to explore new worlds.
Should Jerry Lee Lewis be in the Country Music Hall of Fame?
Jerry Lee Lewis turns 82-years-old today. The "Killer" was in the first group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but he spent much of his career performing country music.
MN Historical Society working on app for people with memory loss
With a $205,00 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minnesota Historical Society will begin work on a new mobile app to spark conversations between people with memory loss and their caretakers and loved ones.
Getting ready for the Twin Cities Marathon? Here's what you need to know
Runners as well as friends, family and fans will be converging along the 26.2-mile route of the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon this Sunday. Here's what you need to know about the run and related events.