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.

Cube Critics: Stay up to date with our weekly art and culture chats with MPR News’ Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle, Max Sparber, Aron Woldeslassie and guests. Listen to or read Cube Critics here

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.

Two new feel-good novels about bookstores celebrate the power of reading
Most novels set in bookshops are heartwarming paeans to bonds forged among readers. The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn and Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa are no exception.
Arts Briefs: Young filmmakers, a laser show and a walking tour
In this week’s Arts Briefs, cartoons on Audible and a residency program to connect Black artists with nature. Also, in Absolute Bleeding Edge: What is wrong with the Grimace shake?
Artist residency program launches in Northwoods
New York artists Brad Kahlhamer and Waverly Bergwin become the inaugural residents of a new artist residency program at Minnesota’s Nemeth Art Center, using the rural setting to create unique works of art for an exhibition in July.
Care about punk music, trans history or both? You need to know Venus DeMars
DeMars, 63, formed her first band and came out as trans in the ‘80s. She’s full of stories and wisdom from more than three decades as an out trans rock star in Minnesota.