Our top arts picks this week: acclaimed sculptor Diana Al Hadid gives talk at NYUAD

Plus: a look at 1400 years of Islamic art and a pop art take on modern China.

17th-century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and empress Mumtaz Mahal (19th century, gold/ivory). Courtesy Newark Museum

Diana Al Hadid to give artist talk at NYUAD

The first solo show in the region by acclaimed sculptor Diana Al Hadid is now open at NYUAD Art Gallery. As discussed on these pages last week, the Syrian-born artist refuses to be boxed in by speculation about meaning; instead, she prefers to focus on how sculpture relates to the environment around it. These topics and more are set to be discussed on Sunday at a talk by Al Hadid at New York University Abu Dhabi, taking in the show, Phantom Limb, how she works and future projects. The talk takes place at 6.30pm and it will be followed by viewing of the exhibition with the artist. Phantom Limb continues at NYUAD Art Gallery until May 28.

Pop art and surreal video from China’s art stars

Stars of contemporary art in China: Xu Zhen, whose work with Buddhist images echoes pop art; and Cao Fei, who is renowned for surreal video art, are on display at the sleek Fondation Louis Vuitton museum in France. The pieces question China's relentless urbanisation, along with themes relating to the economy, identity and the environment. Works from 12 artists who live and work in China are on display. The exhibition is the first to feature Chinese contemporary art in France for 10 years. Chinese artists in a time of turbulence and transformation runs at the Fondation Louis Vuitton until May 2. For more information, visit www.fondationlouisvuitton.fr.

A sweep through 1,400 years of Islamic art

This exhibition looks at the richness and diversity of Islamic art by placing historic and contemporary art side by side. More than 100 objects spanning 1,400 years from the Newark Museum's impressive Islamic art collection are on display, from ninth century ceramics to modern calligraphy by Iraqi master Hassan Massoudy. Art from the sometimes overlooked regions of South East Asia and East and West Africa is also included, along with jewellery, carpets, photographs and glass. Wondrous Worlds: Art and Islam Through Time and Place runs at the Newark Museum, New Jersey, until May 15. For more details, visit www.newarkmuseum.org.