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.

‘Niimiwin’ art exhibit celebrates the powwow tradition
All My Relations Arts will celebrate its current exhibit with live performances and an art market at the Minneapolis American Indian Center. “Niimiwin” is a multimedia art exhibit inspired by powwow and dance.
For airports, background music no longer is an afterthought
Background music is no longer an afterthought at many airports. Some are hiring local musicians and carefully curating playlists to help lighten travelers’ moods. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport features live musicians every day, and Nashville International Airport has five stages that host more than 800 performances a year.
The M’s New Wing and exhibition glow after $14M renovation and expansion
At the Minnesota Museum of American Art, newly commissioned Native works and a broad range of historic and contemporary art are displayed together in the expanded New Wing, creating a setting that centers Indigenous perspectives.
'Love Is Blind' cast are employees, labor board says. Could a reality TV union be next?
The case could have big implications for what glues reality show fans to the tube. A pending ruling, whatever the outcome, would set a precedent that other unscripted TV cast members could follow.
In her new book, journalist Brigid Schulte asks what if work wasn’t such a grind?
In her new book, “Over Work,” journalist Brigid Schulte examines why we work the way we do and how a broken system could be reformed to make work more productive, autonomous and meaningful.
From porchlights to pro displays, here’s your guide to Minnesota holiday lights
Whether you’re a fan of big bulbs, Bing Crosby-esque classics or funky, laser-laden Trans-Siberian Orchestra showstoppers, Minnesota media personality Mike Marcotte has got you covered.