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.

Sam Cooke had a successful six-year run with the Soul Stirrers. "Jesus Gave Me Water" was one their early hits together. But Cooke left the group in 1957 because he wanted to pursue secular, pop music and the Soul Stirrers focused on gospel. He soon rocketed to success as a solo artist with hits like "You Send Me" and "Twisting the Night Away." He was inducted into the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame posthumously in 1986.
1A: Revisiting James Baldwin
Author and Civil Rights activist James Baldwin's legacy has affected American consciousness for decades. What's behind the resurgence of his work?
Rainbow Kitten Surprise is playing First Ave.'s 7th Street Entry tonight. They formed in 2013 after two of their members started playing music together in their freshman dorm at Appalachian State University.
What's life like for immigrant kids? 2 teen novels paint a sober picture
"The Radius of Us" is about a young asylum seeker from El Salvador, and "Something in Between" follows a high schooler who's devastated when learns she and her family are living in the U.S. illegally.