Religious iconography has been a part of art history for millennia, and while the subjects painted over time have changed (fewer saints, more personal reflections), it continues to appear in contemporary work. Using Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy as a jumping-off point, curator and critic Simon Njami selected works from 40 African artists that in some way invoke the ideas of heaven, hell, or purgatory. Videos, mixed-media pieces, paintings, and sculptures fill all four floors of the museum, showing how the 14th-century epic poem’s influence has expanded beyond Western cultures. Read more >>> The exhibition is on view daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Ave. SW. Free. (202) 633-4600. africa.si.edu. (Caroline Jones)
EAT THIS
Brabo in Old Town Alexandria is launching a monthly guest chef dinner series tonight. They’re set for every second Tuesday of the month, and this one features Tim Ma of Arlington’s Water & Wall collaborating with Brabo chef de cuisine Harper McClure. The theme for the four-course meal is “East Meets West,” with dishes like live scallop with soba noodle salad and an oak-smoked poussin with baby golden beets, French beans, black walnuts, and long pepper jus. Tickets are $65, and the dinner begins at 7 p.m. For reservations, call (703) 894-3440 or e-mail events@braborestaurant.com. Brabo by Robert Wiedmaier, 1600 King St., Alexandria. (703) 894-3440. braborestaurant.com. (James Constant)
OH AND ALSO
Ford’s Theatre honors the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln‘s assassination with 36 hours of programming in and around the theater and its adjacent museum. Tonight, actors read his words and musicians perform Civil War-era songs and excerpts from the president’s favorite operas at a commemoration that can be seen via livestream in the National Portrait Gallery’s Kogod Courtyard. 9 p.m. at 8th and F streets NW. Free.
Minnesota-based rock band Sick of Sarah plays the Black Cat Backstage with Baltimore-based alternative band the Last Year. 7:30 p.m. at 1811 14th St. NW. $12.
House venue the Dougout hosts a night of solo performances by a variety of frontmen including Baby Bry Bry, the Gunshy, Andrew Bryant of Water Liars, and Ryan McLaughlin. Find more details on Facebook. 8 p.m. at 1498 Douglas St. NE. $5 suggested donation.
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