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.

Flower photography blooms into broadcaster Diana Pierce’s second act
Twin Cities broadcasting legend Diana Pierce has taken on a new calling in retirement: flower photography. She’s launched a newsletter about flowers and the people who tend to them.
Voicing Sherlock Holmes in Minnesota: A collaboration between author Larry Millett and actor Steve Hendrickson
Actor Steve Hendrickson brings Larry Millett’s Minnesota Mystery series to life through audiobook narration, enhancing the stories' reach and character depth.
Tito Jackson, member of the Jackson 5, dies at 70
The singer and guitarist was part of sibling quintet that took over the pop world in 1969 — it released four consecutive No. 1 hits — and launched a family entertainment dynasty that lasted decades.
Japan celebrates record Emmy wins for 'Shōgun'
Japan erupted with joy Monday as the samurai series “Shogun” won a record 18 Emmys for its first season. It took home prizes including Outstanding Drama Series, as star and co-producer Hiroyuki Sanada became the first Japanese actor to win the Emmy for best lead actor in a dramatic series.
Pioneering ballerina Michaela DePrince dies at 29
DePrince, born in Sierra Leone, lost both her parents during the country’s civil war. She became the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and later joined the Boston Ballet.
Critics Notebook: Adaptations abound in Twin Cities theater this season — and it’s awesome
The upcoming theater season in the Twin Cities is dominated by stage adaptations of popular works, which, while driven by commercial reasons, also have the potential to surpass their source material, offering unique interpretations and new themes.