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.

The Staves moved to the Twin Cities for the music scene
Today's Morning Edition music is from the Staves with "Sleeping in the Car" the title track from their latest E.P. They will be performing tonight at Fitzgerald Theater in downtown St. Paul.
Faith, sex and the South intersect in 'Virgin'
April Ayers Lawson's debut story collection features young, often sheltered characters struggling with intimacy in a world where ordinary uncertainties are amplified by a fundamentalist upbringing.
Meet the musicians behind Japan's vibrant bluegrass scene
Japan's love affair with the genre began with brothers Yasushi and Hisashi Ozaki, who formed the country's first bluegrass duo in 1957. Today, young bands like Bluegrass Police are reviving the scene.
A harrowing tale of Cold War escape in 'The Tunnels'
A new book explores a time in the early 1960s when two groups of diggers built tunnels under the Berlin Wall that were filmed and financed by U.S. television networks.
Chicago finally hit No. 1 40 years ago
Though they had a string of top 10 hits in the '70s, "If You Leave Me Now" was their first chart-topper.