Ai Weiwei, Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
This bumper exhibition features over 50 new and iconic artworks by Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei, on display throughout the palace and its grounds. Highlights include a series of photographs produced in his New York studio in the 1980s plus a table formed from wood reclaimed from temples dating to the Qing Dynasty.
Until 14 December, www.blenheimpalace.com
Anselm Kiefer, Royal Academy, London
Anselm Kiefer is renowned for his ambitious large scale work – what better venue to host them than the Royal Academy’s vast Main Galleries? Often described as a colossus of contemporary art, this significant show spans his entire 40-year career as well as featuring newly commissioned work.
Until 14 December, www.royalacademy.org.uk
Emma Donaldson: Making Trouble, The University of Hertfordshire Galleries, St Albans
Emma Donaldson’s first significant solo UK show features a range of her strangely unique sculptural forms. They are simultaneously otherworldly and natural, relating to the height and proportion of the body, with spherical shapes occurring frequently. Made from low-budget everyday items such as wood and cardboard, they address universal themes such as memory, tension, and feelings.
Until 16 November, www.herts.ac.uk
Alan Michael: Syn, Tramway, Glasgow
This exhibition of paintings and photo-based works utilises the formats of Photorealism and Pop Art. Sources come from art, design and fashion, alongside plants, cars, food, text, logos and other commonplace objects. Devoid of any context, source or reference to their mode of circulation, Michael highlights the layered signifiers embedded in these images. Part of Generation: 25 years of contemporary art in Scotland.
Until 26 October, www.tramway.org
Stuart Brisley: State of Denmark, Modern Art Oxford, Oxford
Viewed as a seminal figure in British performance art, this exhibition spans the majority of Stuart Brisley’s six-decade career. Featuring painting, video and sculpture, the work in State of Denmark explores the political, cultural and social contexts in which we live.
Until 16 November, www.modernartoxford.org.uk
Selections chosen by Jack Hutchinson
More on a-n.co.uk
Michael Shaw reviews Anselm Kiefer’s Royal Acadamy show.
