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 Hollywood blockbuster film "Straight Outta Compton," which tells the story of the rise (and decline) of the pioneering rap group N.W.A. was written by two white screenwriters. Does that matter?
A childhood spent in the 'shadow of a guru'
Journalist Claire Hoffman grew up in a utopian community in Fairfield, Iowa. At first, she says, "it was entirely magical." Then doubt crept in. Hoffman's memoir is "Greetings from Utopia Park."
MPR's Kerri Miller hosts science writer Mary Roach for the latest edition of the 'Thread' series. Roach is the author of books with such intriguing titles as "Stiff," "Spook" and "Gulp." Her newest book is "Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans At War."
Madonna put spotlight on AIDS with 'Live to Tell' performance
In 2006, during her Confessions tour, she sang it while hanging on a giant mirrored cross and wearing a crown of thorns. The number 12 million flashed behind her, an estimate of the number of children orphaned by AIDS in Africa.