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.

October 31, 2024 10:59 AM

What is your favorite monster?

What’s your favorite monster? MPR News guest host Jacob Aloi and guests talk about some of the otherworldly creatures that span all cultures — from the Yōkai of Japan, and the bigfoots of North American forests to Cookie Monster and Count Chocula.

by Jacob Aloi, Cari Dwyer, Alex V. Cipolle and Max Sparber

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 31, 2024 4:00 AM

Art Hounds: ‘Network: A River Connected’ takes a stroll down the Mississippi

This week’s Art Hounds look at an art exhibit about a walk along the Mississippi, Gilbert and Sullivan relocated to Scotland and a blend of concert band and technology.

by Emily Bright

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 30, 2024 4:00 AM

A new exhibit at the Minnesota History Center emphasizes the influence, power of girls

The Smithsonian’s “Girlhood (It’s Complicated)” exhibit is now on display at the Minnesota History Center. It celebrates the impact that girls have had on history and spotlights women’s basketball legends from the state.

by Sam Stroozas

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 29, 2024 1:51 PM

Teri Garr, the offbeat comic actor of 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Tootsie,' has died

Garr died Tuesday of multiple sclerosis “surrounded by family and friends,” said publicist Heidi Schaeffer. She was 79.

by The Associated Press

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 29, 2024 12:36 PM

'Misty of Chincoteague' author life's work lives at University of Minnesota. A new book uncovers her collection

Whether you’re eight or in your eighties, you’re likely familiar with the best-selling children’s book author Marguerite Henry. Her book “Misty of Chincoteague” is one of the most popular children’s books of all time.

by Cathy Wurzer and Aleesa Kuznetsov

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 29, 2024 10:40 AM

Community, culture and healing at 3rd Precinct: Coalition presses for cultural district

In Minneapolis, community group Confluence and the 3000 Minnehaha Coalition are using art and public gatherings to challenge the city’s proposal for a “Democracy Center” at the site of the former 3rd Precinct police station, instead advocating for a community-driven space focused on healing, placemaking and local culture.

by Alex V. Cipolle

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 26, 2024 8:00 AM

Ask a Bookseller: ‘Scrap’ by Calla Henkel

Hunter Gillum of Beaverdale Books in Des Moines, Iowa, recommends the mystery/crime novel “Scrap” by Calla Henkel.

by Emily Bright

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 25, 2024 3:34 PM

Phil Lesh, founding member of Grateful Dead and influential bassist, dies at 84

Grateful Dead founding member Phil Lesh has died at age 84. Lesh was a classically trained violinist and jazz trumpeter who found his true calling reinventing the role of rock music's bass guitarist.

by The Associated Press

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

October 25, 2024 11:00 AM

Unsung Americans with Minnesota‘s own Sharon McMahon

Sharon McMahon went viral in 2020 when the former government teacher took to Instagram to battle misinformation. Now the Minnesotan is out with a book that combines her passion for history with her belief that everyday people can influence democracy in “The Small and the Mighty.”

by Kerri Miller and Kelly Gordon