Still from John Gerrard’s “Animated Scene” (Oil Field), 2007

>> Directions: John Gerrard opens this Thursday at the Hirshhorn. In this exhibit, see Gerrard’s farm-scapes and oil fields that raise questions regarding man’s use and abuse of the environment.

>> At the National Portrait Gallery, three artists ask the question: What is community? Rose Frantzen, Jim Torok, and Rebecca Westcott present their own answer with portraits of friends, family and characters from their respective lives in Portraiture Now: Communities. Opening November 6.

>> Twenty years ago this Sunday, the Berlin Wall came down. Celebrate with the whole family at the Newseum‘s Berlin Wall Family Day. Hear how graffiti has been a form of protest, then try it out for yourself on the Newseum’s re-created wall. Play quiz games and search for clues in a scavenger hunt. November 8, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

>> The Anacostia Community Museum opens The African Presence in Mexico: From Yanga to the Present. This exhibit highlights the traditions and popular culture of Afro-Mexicans showcasing many paintings, masks, photography, and other works of art. Opening November 9.

>> A comprehensive exhibit of Yinka Shonibare MBE‘s work will be on display at the Museum of African Art. The exhibit will highlight recent works including painting, sculpture and installation, photography and moving images of this Nigerian born artist. Opening November 10.

>> Over centuries, African Americans and Native Americans created shared histories, communities, families, and ways of life. IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas highlights race, community, culture, and creativity within the African American, American Indian communities. American Indian Museum, opening November 10.

>> At the Corcoran hear Edward Burtynsky talk on his photographic works in Edward Burtynsky: Oil. November 11 at 7 p.m. $15 members, $20 public.