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.

10-year-old Minnesota singer Mira Babal tells it like it is in ‘Mad for No Reason’
You haven’t heard 10-year-old Mira Babal's latest track on the Billboard Hot 100 — at least not yet. But “Mad for No Reason” is catchy, upbeat — and a callout to the adults in Mira’s life. She wants them to stop arguing all the time. 
The games we play: MPR News staff share their favorite video games of 2023
This year was a monumental occasion for video games, with highly-anticipated titles released like Baldur’s Gate 3 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. MPR News staff across the newsroom shared some of their favorite games from 2023 (and one title from 2022) and what they loved about the experience.
APM podcasts for kids tap into curiosity about science and history
MPR News host Angela Davis and producer Matt Alvarez revisit a favorite show from 2023, a conversation with kids’ podcast hosts Molly Bloom and Joy Dolo about the creative process that goes into making award-winning podcasts for curious kids and curious adults.
Art Friend: Our arts critic takes a teacher to see a subversive piece at the Walker
MPR News’ Art Friend goes to an art exhibition at the Walker Art Center to explore and reflect on the dynamic and politically charged artworks from the Eastern Bloc, particularly struck by Gyola Konkoly's "Bleeding Monument" and its themes of resilience and transient beauty.
Minnesota Yacht Club Music Festival scheduled for next summer in St. Paul
Concert promoters behind several of the country’s top music festivals are making plans for a new event in St. Paul next summer. The lineup for the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival is set to be released next month.
J.D. Steele: Spreading joy and soul through song
Musician J.D. Steele is known for his work with Prince and singing and producing R&B, gospel and soul with The Steeles. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with this Minnesota music powerhouse about his career, directing community choirs and inspiring the next generation to sing.