Four Shows to See
Falcons: The Art of the Hunt, National Museum of Asian Art
The trained accuracy of hunting falcons (猎鹰) has long been attractive to humans. As long ago as early 8th-century Syria, falcons were being trained to become skillful hunters for the royal courts. The fashion spread across the globe. A new show collects paintings and objects from ancient Egypt to China celebrating the hunting power of the birds. (Jan. 15-July 17).
Iké Udé-Nollywood Portraits, National Museum of African Art
The success of Nigeria's film industry has also meant the rise of charm and celebrity in what is called Nollywood. Enter lké Udé to photograph the leading stars. The result reflects the changing nature of African identity in the 21st century. (Feb.5)
We Are Made of Stories, Smithsonian American Art Museum
This exhibition highlights some of the 93 works of art in the collection of Margaret Z. Robson, featuring the works of 48 major self-taught artists. The collection was gifted, the largest of its kind in two decades, and it expanded the museum's extensive holdings of what was once referred to as folk art. July 1)
Baseball: America's Home Run, National Postal Museum
This show features hundreds of US and international stamps in memory of baseball's finest players. First organized to mark the 150th anniversary of professional baseball, "Base-ball: America's Home Run "will feature some historic objects that have never appeared on public display. (April 9-September 25)
