MUSEUM EXHIBITS
Opening December 5 at the National Museum of Women in the Arts is “Picturing Mary: Woman, Mother, Idea,” comprising more than 60 works from churches, galleries, and private collections in the US and Europe that examine the ways the Virgin Mary is depicted in art. Through April 12.
“Zen, Tea, and Chinese Art in Medieval Japan,” at the Freer Gallery beginning December 13, showcases aspects of Japanese art and culture—including tea ceremonies and ink paintings—as well as their roots in Chinese traditions through artifacts from both countries. Through June 14.
Also opening December 13 at the Freer is “Oribe Ware: Color and Pattern Come to Japanese Ceramics,” which looks at the Oribe style, characterized by vivid color and pattern, that was invented in Japan in 1605. The works include two from the museum’s permanent collection on view for the first time. Through June 14.
The Yuan Dynasty was a time of high international demand for Chinese wares. In “Chinese Ceramics: 13th-14th Century,” the Freer displays 12 pieces illustrating the period’s various styles. December 20 through January 3, 2016.
GALLERY SHOWS
Through December 24 at Plan B, see the works of 30-plus artists on display in the gallery’s year-end group show.
Washington Printmakers Gallery presents “Everything That Rises Must Converge,” a collection of woodcuts and Solarplate etchings by Corcoran graduate Joan Krash, shown both separately and combined into collages. December 3 through 28.
In Touchstone’s Gallery C is “Plane Watchers,” a series of photos by Annika Haas capturing life in an Estonian shantytown after the collapse of the Soviet empire. December 5 through 28.
Opening December 11 at Target Gallery is “5×5(x5),” in which 35 artists challenged themselves to create a work in any medium that is no larger than five inches in any direction.
At Foundry Gallery beginning December 13 is the appropriately named “Come In From the Cold,” comprising winter-themed works from 17 artists including Barbara Stepura, Michiyo Mizuuchi, and Ronald Gregory. Through December 28.
Continuing its annual tradition of solo shows by local emerging artists, Transformer presents the works of painter Jameson Magrogan, a Maryland Institute College of Art graduate. December 13 through January 31.
EVENTS
This month’s Phillips After 5 happens December 4 and is themed around the museum’s “Neo-Impressionism and the Dream of Realities” exhibit. Make a reservation ($12) online.
December 6, check out a Holidays Through History open house at Tudor Place, Anderson House, Dumbarton House, and Woodrow Wilson House. Learn about American Christmas traditions through the ages, decorate your own holiday cards, and more. $16 online or $20 at the door.
December 6 and 7, Loudoun Arts Center has its grand opening. Check out free workshops and classes, see works and performances by students, and enjoy light refreshments.
December 12 through 14 at Dulles Expo Center is the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival, featuring jewelry, painting, furniture, and more by 300-plus artisans.
Take the kids to Arlington Arts Center December 13 for the Gift Mania holiday workshop, where they can learn to make creative presents by hand.
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington hosts a holiday boutique and craft show on December 23 for all your last-minute gifting needs.
