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.

'Inside Out 2' scores $100 million in its second weekend, setting records
In just a week and a half, “Inside Out 2” has become 2024’s highest-grossing film to date, surpassing “Dune: Part Two.” “Inside Out 2” will likely blow through the $1 billion mark in about a week.
The late 'Jeopardy!' host Alex Trebek will be honored with a U.S. postage stamp
The stamp says: “This naturalized U.S. citizen hosted the quiz show ‘Jeopardy!’ for 37 seasons.” Underneath and in the show’s signature interrogative format is written: “Who is Alex Trebek?”
At 91, a Nigerian artist who reimagined the crucifixion gets a Smithsonian show
Bruce Onobrakpeya was unafraid to challenge the conventions of the art world — and was celebrated for it. This giant of African art is basking in the joy of his first Smithsonian solo exhibition.
A look backstage: Inside the lives of DJs
MPR News host Angela Davis talked with two women who are professional DJs. Companies, sports teams, families and non-profit leaders hire them to plan music for events and get the party going.
Can you create your own luck?
Social scientist Mark Robert Rank says: not really. You can and should work hard. Talent plays a role. But random chance has far more to do with success than sheer determination.
The journey to pink pride: The ‘sickly sweet’ art of Duluth’s Cherry Koch
Cherry Koch, a Duluth artist awarded a grant for her “Homebody” project, explores themes of identity, trauma and religion through surrealist portraits of friends holding dollhouse-sized structures she builds.