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.

'Darktown' imagines what it was like for Atlanta's first black policemen
In 1948, eight African-American men joined Atlanta's police force. Those pioneer officers -- who couldn't drive squad cars or even step foot in headquarters -- inspired Thomas Mullen's new novel.
Springsteen releases songs from the early days
Five previously unreleased tracks from the beginning of his career are part of a new Bruce Springsteen compilation "Chapter and Verse" which comes out today.
Girls' Life vs. Boys' Life? Magazine covers spark an uproar
When graphic designer Katherine Young saw the cover comparison, she couldn't believe it. Then, she set out to fix it.
'The Wonder' is a hard-to-believe talk of belief
Emma Donoghue's latest follows a nurse in 19th century Ireland who agrees to monitor a famed fasting girl. But both the unsympathetic nurse and the credulous villagers are hard to like or understand.
With 'Ragtime,' Latte Da puts down new roots
The company's latest musical is its first production since buying a permanent home in the Ritz Theater.
'Born to Run' is a 500-page Springsteen show
Can't see The Boss in concert? Pick up his new memoir, which begins with 7-year-old Springsteen watching Elvis on TV. From $3-a-night shows to swooning stadiums, it's a wild and well-written ride.
Watch: Hillary Clinton deadpans on 'Between Two Ferns'
"What happens if you get pregnant? Are we going to be stuck with Tim Kaine for nine months?" host Zach Galifianakis asks.
Art Hounds: Three theater pieces
This week on Art Hounds: "Death of a Salesman," "Our Town" and "Queen."
Food for thought: 10 restaurants that shaped America
A Yale historian's new book explores America's changing tastes, and what they say about our culture -- from class mobility to civil rights to women's changing status.