CHARLES DESMARAIS’ ART PICKS
“Klimt and Rodin: An Artistic Encounter”: This last in a series of Auguste Rodin centenary exhibitions at the Legion compares the sculptor’s works in bronze to Gustav Klimt’s sensual, sexual paintings. It’s an unprecedented opportunity to see this many Klimt works on the West Coast. $15-$30. Closes Jan. 28. Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park, 100 34th Ave., S.F. http://legionofhonor.famsf.org
“Ramekon O’Arwisters: Mending”: O’Arwisters has brought the venerable craft of crochet into the realm of high art. In this new work, he builds his soft sculpture around broken bits of pottery, mourning their damage and attempting — futilely, as it turns out — to heal them at the same time. Free. Through Feb. 10. Patricia Sweetow Gallery, 315 Potrero Ave. (510) 788-5860. www.patricia sweetowgallery.com
Michael E. Smith: At 500 Capp St. is a historic house with a major twist: The entire place is a work of art, carefully shaped and curated from top to bottom by one of the founders of Bay Area conceptual art. For this exhibition, Detroit artist Smith has made the most gentle of interventions — a loving caress of a major monument. $10-$20 (check website or call for options). Through Feb. 3. David Ireland House, 500 Capp St., S.F. (415) 8729240. http://500cappstreet.org
Isaac Julien: “Playtime”: Three cinematic installations by the British artist, including an ultrahigh-definition, seven-screen environment that weaves together sublime landscapes and brawny city views. Sumptuous and transfixing. Free. Through Feb. 11. Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture, 2 Marina Blvd., S.F. (415) 345-7575. www.fortmason.org
Robert Rauschenberg: “Erasing the Rules”: An expansive exhibition that makes clear why the artist was one of the most influential of the latter half of the 20th century. Through March 25. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St., S.F. www.sfmoma.org