Top five shows: Dec 27, 2012-Jan 2, 2013

El Anatsui, “Pot of Wisdom” at Jack Shainman Gallery
The acclaimed African artist offers his sublime wall hangings woven out of recycled materials, including twist-off metal bottle caps and lengths of copper wiring. Through Jan 19

Chris McCaw, “Marking Time” at Yossi Milo Gallery
McCaw uses a large-format camera to subject pieces of vintage photo paper to outdoor exposures for up to 24 hours. As a result, the sun’s rays actually singe the paper, leaving an arcing burn mark that traces across the sky. Through Jan 19

“Henry Darger: Landscapes” at Ricco/Maresca Gallery
This show focuses on the role that landscape plays in the creation of Darger’s fantastical Vivian Girls universe. Through Feb 2

Tucker Nichols, “Rocks & Plants” at ZieherSmith
Bits of Sheetrock, wood and found objects, combined with a naive style of rendering subject matter, distinguish the work of this artist, whose fondness for plant life as a theme is undoubtedly influenced by his father, a champion flower arranger. Through Jan 26

Louise Despont, “Tide Fulcrum & the Motion of Fixed Stars” at Nicelle Beauchene Gallery
Despont’s delicately rendered, celestial-themed drawings resemble prayer rugs. Through Jan 20