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.

From Nye’s to Betty’s Pies: A Minneapolis designer photographs the signs of Minnesota
Minneapolis-based designer and sign painter Kelsi Sharp showcases her photo collection and hand-painted signs in the exhibition “Greetings From” at Augsburg University, reflecting on Minnesota’s visual history through iconic and hidden signage.
A new chapter for MPR host Tom Crann: From news to classical music
Tom Crann has been a familiar voice on MPR News for years. Now, he’s turning the dial to a new frequency. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with him about his journalism career and why he’s making the move to MPR’s classical service.  
‘This whole other reality’: Pao Houa Her’s photos show complexity of Hmong diaspora
Pao Houa Her’s internationally acclaimed photography is rooted in her experience being born in Laos, living with her family in the jungle for a year, escaping to a refugee camp and moving to Minnesota.
Aggressive immigration enforcement makes musicians rethink U.S. tours
In a time of aggressive immigration enforcement, some international musicians are deciding that going through the complicated process of getting a U.S. artist visa may not be worth the financial and safety risks.
This Twin Cities playwright honors the range of the Hmong experience on stage
Katie Ka Vang moved to Minnesota when she was 18 years old and has collaborated with theaters across the Twin Cities. Her plays often center around the question of what it means to be Hmong American.