How fictional images can influence real life
This exhibition in Azerbaijan looks at how fictional images portrayed on screen can have consequences in the real world. It features international artists such as Neil Beloufa, Hannah Black, Camille Henrot and Bunny Rogers. Black, for example, has a video installation that examines how bodybuilders in Baku try to emulate the photoshopped images in fitness magazines and on film superheroes. The title of the exhibition is taken from a 1940 novel by Carson McCullers that looks at themes of alienation and loneliness in small town America. The Heart is a Lonely Hunter runs at the Yarat Contemporary Art Centre in Baku until January 9. For more information visit www.yarat.az.
Experience the glory of princely pursuits
The traditional pastime of Islamic kings and princes is the subject of this major exhibition in Doha. Drawing on Qatari and Turkish collections dating from the 11th century, it examines how royals projected their power through hunting, and how images of the sport become synonymous with brave and powerful rulers. More than eighty rare objects are on display, including daggers, quivers, bows, archers' rings set with precious stones, rifles, hunting horns, swords and falcon hoods. The Hunt: Princely Pursuits in Islamic Lands runs at the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar until January 9. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.
The brooding similarities between two masters
Edvard Munch was a Norwegian artist renowned for his paintings that detail psychological torment. Vincent Van Gogh, meanwhile, was a Dutch painter famed for his Post-Impressionist works. While it is believed they never met, this exhibition in Amsterdam examines the artistic parallels between the two, such as their dark worldview and the toll their dedication to art had on their health. About 100 works are on display, with Munch's classic The Scream placed along The Bridge of Trinquetaille by Van Gogh. Munch: Van Gogh runs at the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands until January 17. For more information visit www.vangoghmuseum.nl.
