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.

September 27, 2023 5:25 PM

23 art galleries, five days, two cities

Arts reporter Alex V. Cipolle visited 10 art galleries in Minneapolis and St. Paul for a preview of the Twin Cities Art Week, showcasing the diverse and vibrant contemporary art scene, from major institutions to neighborhood spaces, with various intriguing exhibitions.

by Alex V. Cipolle

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September 27, 2023 4:00 AM

‘A straight-up blessing’: St. Paul music school gets big gift

The Walker|West Music Academy is celebrating a multimillion-dollar gift it says will allow it to serve more kids and transform a new practice and performance space.

by Mark Zdechlik

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September 26, 2023 7:52 PM

The Hollywood writers strike is over after guild leaders approve contract with studios

Leaders of the screenwriters union declared their nearly five-month-old strike over Tuesday after board members approved a contract agreement with studios, bringing Hollywood at least partly back from a historic halt in production.

by The Associated Press

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September 26, 2023 6:09 PM

'People Collide' is a 'Freaky Friday'-type exploration of the self and persona

Isle McElroy's novel covers a deep exploration of marriage, love, and the ways we know one another — while also touching on how so much of how we navigate the world depends on how it sees us.

by Ilana Masad

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September 26, 2023 4:51 PM

Olivia Rodrigo wants you to decide what her songs are about

On “Guts,” the 20-year-old pop phenom is a little louder and funnier than the teenager on her debut — and even more fascinated with what the best songwriters leave out of the picture.

by Ailsa Chang and Kira Wakeam

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September 26, 2023 12:31 PM

The dystopian suspense 'Land of Milk and Honey' satisfies all manner of appetites

Set in the near future, C Pam Zhang's atmospheric novel centers on a chef who takes a job at a tech entrepreneur's isolated compound after smog kills most of Earth's plant and animal species.

by Maureen Corrigan

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September 26, 2023 12:04 PM

Minneapolis gallery selling first Bob Ross painting from PBS show for $9.85 million

Bob Ross’ first piece from the first episode of the PBS program “The Joy of Painting” 40 years ago is up for sale at the Minneapolis gallery Modern Artifact — for $9.85 million.

by Cathy Wurzer and Gracie Stockton

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September 26, 2023 11:50 AM

Eleanor Savage on how artists create social change

Can artists create social change? MPR News host Angela Davis talks about what the arts bring to our community with Eleanor Savage, the new president of the Jerome Foundation.

by Angela Davis and Maja Beckstrom

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September 25, 2023 6:44 PM

David McCallum, star of TV series 'The Man From U.N.C.L.E.' and 'NCIS,' dies at 90

The Scottish-born actor's career included roles on stage and in movies, but the 1960s spy series made him a household name and his role as a quirky pathologist 40 years later brought him fame again.

by The Associated Press

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September 24, 2023 10:04 PM

Hollywood writers reach a tentative deal with studios after nearly five month strike

Hollywood production has been halted for months as actors and writers have been on strike. Now, the writers are headed back to work. Actors represented by SAG-AFTRA remain on strike.

by Mandalit del Barco

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