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.

Power Pair: ‘The Laundry Guy’ and the music critic
Monday at 9 a.m., MPR News host Angela Davis revisits a conversation with Pioneer Press pop music critic Ross Raihala and his partner Patric Richardson, author of “Laundry Love” and “House Love.”
A bereaved single father navigates a new path forward in ‘I Will Do Better’
Charles Bock’s achingly honest new memoir, “I Will Do Better,” begins on his daughter’s third birthday — the same day he is planning his wife’s funeral.
Saturday is the winter solstice. Make the most of the shortest day of the year
Saturday marks the shortest day of the year and the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. NPR has compiled plenty of expert tips for celebrating the solstice and weathering winter.
‘Niimiwin’ art exhibit celebrates the powwow tradition
All My Relations Arts will celebrate its current exhibit with live performances and an art market at the Minneapolis American Indian Center. “Niimiwin” is a multimedia art exhibit inspired by powwow and dance.
For airports, background music no longer is an afterthought
Background music is no longer an afterthought at many airports. Some are hiring local musicians and carefully curating playlists to help lighten travelers’ moods. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport features live musicians every day, and Nashville International Airport has five stages that host more than 800 performances a year.