The enduring legacy of the Magna Carta
One of the world's most famous documents turns 800 this year. But does the Magna Carta represent the foundation of democracy or the basis for modern rights? Or both? The vibrant discussion has continued for centuries about a document that was originally just a political agreement to end strife between King John and his unruly barons in England. This remarkable new exhibition in London displays two of the four original Magna Carta documents and examines how it has been used, and abused, since it was first signed in 1215. Magna Carta: Law, Liberty, Legacy runs at the British Library until September 1. For more information visit www.bl.uk.
New show of works by satirical Chinese artist
A new exhibition in Shanghai brings together more than a 100 works from Xu Zhen, a leading figure from the Chinese art world known for his irreverence. The show includes some of his early installations, such as the video Shouting (1998), which captures the reaction of a crowded street in Shanghai, when Xu begins screaming from behind his camera. In another, Rainbow, a man's back is beaten until it burns red. Xu Zhen Solo Exhibition runs at the Long Museum West Bund in Shanghai until May 24. Visit www.thelongmuseum.org.
First French exhibition of a Spanish master
Seville in 1599 was a city at the centre of the flow of ideas, people and culture between the Americas and Europe. It was into this cultural diversity that Diego Velázquez was born and, at the age of 12, embarked on a career that would revolutionise art: Velázquez became the official artist to King Philip IV and the leader of the Spanish school. This exhibition, the first of his work in France, showcases his religious images, domestic scenes and portraits. Velázquez runs at the Grand Palais in Paris until July 13. For more information, visit www.grandpalais.fr.
