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.

Minnesota folk and blues community unites to honor ‘Spider’ John Koerner’s life, music and legacy
Charlie Parr, Paul Metsa and the Cactus Blossoms were among the local musicians who put their own twists on “Spider” John Koerner songs. The humble musician, beloved by Bonnie Raitt and Bob Dylan, died last month at 85.
The high cost of medical whistleblowing
MPR News guest host Euan Kerr talks with University of Minnesota bioethicist Carl Elliott about his new book, “The Occasional Human Sacrifice: Medical Experimentation and the Price of Saying No.”
Marshall Pride provides a cathartic homecoming for small town drag performers
Drag shows are now a staple of the entertainment scene in the Twin Cities and other larger Minnesota towns. Some of the performers grew up in rural Minnesota. Some of those small towns host drag shows of their own, and these performers are taking the opportunity for a cathartic homecoming. 
Author Gabrielle Zevin to speak in Minneapolis for the paperback release of 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow'
“Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” is a New York Times best-selling book about love, art and video games. MPR News reporter Kyra Miles spoke with author Gabrielle Zevin ahead of her visit to Minneapolis.
Bobby Z talks about 40 years of Prince’s ‘Purple Rain,’ upcoming musical
Prince’s album “Purple Rain” turned 40 on Tuesday. The man behind the beat of the album, record producer and musician Bobby Rivkin “Bobby Z,” joined Minnesota Now to talk about the iconic record and upcoming musical.