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.

What disaster creates: A Palestinian American artist investigates conflict
In Minneapolis, Palestinian American artist Lamia Abukhadra’s new light installation, “Not the Sunrise,” at the Hair + Nails gallery, juxtaposes images of the sun with the stark reality of the 2021 bombings in Gaza, challenging perceptions of conflict and media through art.
In rhythm and revelation: Lady Midnight explores love and loss
Lady Midnight, a Minnesota-based singer, discusses her new dance-focused album “Pursuit & The Elusive,” which delves into themes of love, addiction and self-discovery, born from a deep personal journey during the pandemic and reflecting on past trauma and healing.
Rare St. John's Bible editions headed to England
It’s been 25 years since St. John’s Abbey and University in Collegeville, Minn., commissioned the first handwritten, hand-illuminated Bible since the invention of the printing press. Now, rare copies of the Bible will be presented to three institutions in the Church of England.
Ask A Bookseller: 'A Rake of His Own'
In this week’s Ask a Bookseller, Shayne Molt of Indigo Bridge in Lincoln, Neb., recommends the fantasy romance novel “A Rake of His Own” by A.J Lancaster.
Employees at all seven First Avenue music venues unionize
About 200 bartenders, ticket-collectors, and floor managers working at First Avenue’s seven locations moved to unionize. They’re asking for better pay, better training and more notice in scheduling shifts.