Polaroids: Mapplethorpe. Nearly 100 Polaroids from the almost 1,500 Robert Mapplethorpe shot at the beginning of his career trace the artist’s development toward the provocation of his mature work. Through April 5 at Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston; 847-491-4000.
Robin Bowman Photographs: Direct black-and-white portraits of teenagers from all regions and socioeconomic groups in the United States are poignantly paired with statements by the subjects. Through March 7 at Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St.; 312-266-2350.
Vera Klement Mixed-media Collages: Two series of “meditations” on short writings by Franz Kafka and Rainer Maria Rilke translate, examine and extend the authors’ words. Through Feb. 14 at Printworks, 311 W. Superior St.; 312-664-9407.
David Kroll Paintings, Ceramics: Birds and other small creatures in their natural habitat, along with elaborate pots and vessels that obliquely suggest narratives of intrusion. Through Feb. 28 at Zolla/Lieberman Gallery, 325 W. Huron St.; 312-944-1990.
Gallery openings — City
Finestra Art Space: HOMEGALLERYHOME, a group show. Through Feb. 27; opening reception 5-9 p.m. Feb. 13 at 410 S. Michigan Ave., ste. 516; 847 -977-0526.
Hammer: Leonard Koscianski paintings. Through March 14; opening reception 5:30-8 p.m. Friday at 740 N. Wells St.; 312-266-8512.
McCormick: Darrell Roberts paintings. Through March 7; opening reception 5-8 p.m. Friday at 835 W. Washington Blvd.; 312-226-6800.
PRISM Contemporary Glass: Scott Schroeder sculptures. Through Feb. 28; opening reception 5-8 p.m. Friday at 1048 W. Fulton Market; 312-243-4885.
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