“I only pursue one goal: the encyclopedia of life.” Urban, global, local or commercial, a unique form of photography delves into the contemporary world.

With a bold and undeterred vision, Kesley McClellan and Michelle Maguire’s series pairs colour-coded styling with icons of fast-food Americana.

Light has the power to transform nocturnal landscapes and deliver unique messages. Lumiere London brings together such innovative artworks.

Art has the potential to make ideas tangible. Olafur Eliasson aims to turn abstract concepts into palpable structures, engaging with the public sphere.

Irving Penn began his artistic journey when photography was primarily used as a mode of communication. C/O Berlin celebrates his career.

Trained as an architect, Portuguese artist Cristina Rodrigues combines social concerns, ethnography and gender relations in her practice.

A selection of exhibitions running 23-24 December engage with the shifting ways in which human beings experience the world.

Mika Yajima makes use of fibre as a material to create conceptual installations. We speak with the Tokyo-based artist to find out more.

Expanding perceptions, the selection for 16-17 December investigates new ways of seeing the world.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia, is the world’s largest salt flat. This exceptional environment forms the backdrop for Scarlett Hooft Graafland’s images.

The role of the art institution is evolving. Art Fund’s Museum of the Year seeks out innovation, celebrating galleries across the UK.

Viviane Sassen’s series, Roxane II, documents the intimate reciprocal relationship between the photographer and her muse.

Approximately 3.8 billion people use the internet worldwide. ICA Boston investigates the influence of the web on visual art and society.

Exhibitions running 9-10 December respond to the immediate environment, documenting urban, natural and individual landscapes.

Lise Sarfati’s images capture the act of wandering, set against the architectural backdrop of downtown Los Angeles.

Magnum Retold asks contemporary photographers to respond to iconic documentary series from the agency’s archives.

The impact and evolution of technology is foregrounded in the 30th anniversary edition of London Art Fair.

A site-specific installation at Yorkshire Sculpture Park by Chiharu Shiota investigates themes of loss, nostalgia and life cycles.

An exhibition of German photographer Andreas Gursky’s monumental work marks the reopening of Hayward Gallery, London.

Read our top 10 suggestions for gifts this Christmas. From cultural institutions, independent and established companies, our list covers it all.