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.

March 27, 2017 8:18 AM

Tale as old as time: The dark appeal of 'Beauty and the Beast'

Disney's new live-action extravaganza is just the latest retelling of this classic fairy tale. But why do Beauty and her Beast have such a hold on us? And why are there so many versions of their tale?

by Genevieve Valentine

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March 25, 2017 5:00 AM

'A little bit dark, a little bit odd, always absolutely beautiful': The short stories of Carys Davies

Bookstore owner Lisa Sharp doesn't usually pick up short story collections; she prefers a full-length novel. But Carys Davies's stories broke that streak.

by Tracy Mumford

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March 24, 2017 5:00 PM

Hay, baby: Newborn farm animals make their zoo debut

Spring is almost here, bringing with it another annual event: farm babies.

by Evan Frost

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March 24, 2017 4:27 PM

Guillermo, salsa and plenty of theater: Your weekend arts guide

Sure, it might hit 50 degrees this weekend, but these shows will make you want to stay inside.

by Eric Ringham

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March 24, 2017 2:02 PM

If you break literature down by the numbers

Statistician Ben Blatt dumped the text of thousands of books into a database, and pulled out many revealing trends.

by Tracy Mumford

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March 24, 2017 11:16 AM

Welcome to 'The Collapsing Empire': Questions for John Scalzi

Prolific sci-fi author John Scalzi boots up a new universe in "The Collapsing Empire." It's set in a future where far-flung humanity's ability to travel and communicate between planets is under threat.

by Petra Mayer

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March 24, 2017 8:55 AM

Dylan reveals his favorite song that includes his name in the lyrics

An interesting interview with the singer was posted this week on his website. He talks about his current fascination with old songs and the differences between northern and southern Minnesota.

by MPR News Staff

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March 24, 2017 7:30 AM

Wine, painting forge new ties in north Minneapolis

Paint-and-sip parties are drawing in African-Americans eager to build friendships and try their hand at some art. In the process, they're helping build a new kind of north side culture.

by Emma Sapong