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.

November 17, 2023 5:39 AM

Google's latest AI music tool creates tracks using famous singers' voice clones

Nine artists including T-Pain, Demi Lovato and Charlie Puth have granted Google permission to use their singing voices for the new tool, Dream Track.

by Chloe Veltman

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November 17, 2023 4:00 AM

Cube Critics discuss 'The Marvels' and 'Saltburn'

Arts reporter Jacob Aloi and original Cube Critic Stephanie Curtis review "The Marvels" and "Saltburn."

by Jacob Aloi and Stephanie Curtis

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November 16, 2023 12:00 PM

Nerds of color assemble for ConFluence this weekend

Leslie Barlow, an artist and community educator passionate about science fiction, founded ConFluence, a pop culture convention centered on people of color, in response to the lack of Black and brown representation at traditional sci-fi events.

by Jacob Aloi

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November 16, 2023 9:25 AM

Ned Blackhawk and Justin Torres are among the winners of National Book Awards

The nonfiction prize was awarded on Wednesday night to Ned Blackhawk’s “The Rediscovery of America.” Justin Torres’ “Blackouts” has won the National Book Award for fiction. Young people’s literature was won by Dan Santat’s “A First Time for Everything.”

by The Associated Press

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November 16, 2023 4:00 AM

Art Hounds: The past and present of Native art

The November exhibit at the Northwoods Friends of the Arts in Cook is “Native American Art: Past and Present," featuring work by local Native American artists. Off-Leash Theater Productions presents its second “Off-Kilter Cabaret” this weekend and The Commonweal Theatre Company stages the musical comedy “She Loves Me.”

by Emily Bright

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November 15, 2023 3:30 PM

The 18-inch Minnesota icon: American Girl Lila Monetti

The 2024 American Girl of the Year, Lila Monetti from St. Paul, embodies contemporary girlhood with interests in horseback riding and gymnastics, featuring a story by Erin Falligant that explores themes of friendship evolution and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of Minnesota's Twin Cities.

by Sam Stroozas

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November 15, 2023 7:47 AM

'Eyeliner' examines the cosmetic's history as a symbol of strength and protest

Journalist Zahra Hankir draws a line connecting the cosmetic across civilizations, continents and eras straight into today — as not only a beauty product but as a means of self expression and more.

by Elise Hu

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November 14, 2023 1:43 PM

Worthington artist and fashion designer works to use art for healing

Suree Sompamitwong founded Creative Healing Space to offer art therapy and other programming in the small town where she grew up.

by Catharine Richert and Alanna Elder

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November 14, 2023 1:42 PM

Minneapolis artist Tufawon on his new album, 'Waiting for You'

Tufawon talked with MPR News guest host Catharine Richert about the inspiration behind his music, from long-distance relationships to protest songs.

by Catharine Richert and Ellen Finn

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November 14, 2023 10:20 AM

Vote for YourClassical Christmas favorites

The voting is now open for YourClassical’s Christmas Favorites! Help determine which holiday tunes are played later in December on MPR News and YourClassical MPR.

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