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.

Ask a Bookseller: ‘Martyr!’
Content Bookstore owner Jessica Peterson White recommends “Marytyr!” by Kaveh Akbar, telling of an Iranian-American’s poignant journey through addiction, grief and self-discovery.
Quiet currents, cultural shifts: Arab and North African artists find a hub in Minnesota
Kathryn Haddad, a writer and community organizer in Minnesota, has significantly influenced the local art scene by fostering a supportive environment for Middle Eastern and North African artists.
Heading out for Indie Bookstore Day? Here’s a stack of recommendations
You know that feeling when you walk into a bookstore and forget the title of every book you’ve ever wanted to read? Here are some recent recommendations to inspire you for Saturday’s Independent Bookstore Day.
‘I’m sorry we broke the sea and sky’: CNN chief climate correspondent on finding hope in climate change
Bill Weir’s new book is called “Life as We Know It (Can Be).” He wrote it as a letter to his 4-year-old son River on how to find hope in a world of climate change.
‘I wanted to see stories about our experience’: For 25 years Mizna has helped artists make cultural connections
April is Arab-American Heritage month and for 25 years, local nonprofit Mizna has been amplifying the voices of Minnesota’s growing community of Arab, Southwest Asian and North African artists.