A major exhibition of African art is in Manchester. Photo © Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi 2004.

The museums and galleries of Manchester have some mighty fine exhibitions to help see you through the the January chill. Here are a few choice picks and links to 24 Hour Museum articles.

You've seen the film, now find out what really happened at Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition, which has seen record-breaking visitor numbers at the Museum of Science and Industry.

The tragic incident is illustrated with real histories of the passengers and crew and artefacts including a two-and-a-half ton section of the ship’s hull (ends January 16 2005).

The effects of the Mugabe regime and other forceful issues are depicted in Visions of Zimbabwe, a showcase of 13 outspoken artists and writers from the former British colony. Expect striking photography and political installations covering independence, Aids and vanishing African culture. At Manchester Art Gallery until February 13 2005.

Night Rituals, David Brazier. From Visions of Zimbabwe © the artist

There are currently two powerful photographic exhibitions at the at Imperial War Museum North.

Taken by the Gun: Photographs by Paula Keenan has been developed in collaboration with Mothers Against Violence and explores the growing problem of gun crime. The display finishes on January 16 2005.

Auschwitz in the present day is the subject of a series of images by award-winning photographer Richard Kolker. The display of landscapes will continue until February 13 2005 at IWM North, marking the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration camps and coinciding with Holocaust Memorial Day, January 27 2005.

Wooden barrack blocks, designed as stabling for 52 horses, used to house 1000 prisoners. © Richard Kolker.

Lest We Forget – War Medals By Edward Carter Preston documents the distinguished career of the 20th century medallist. Manchester Museum is fortunate to possess a very comprehensive archive of his work, which spans from the First World War to the Korean War, on show until January 16 2005.

German architect Erich Mendelsohn was a similarly important design figure of the 20th century, internationally renowned for his avant-garde Einstein Tower in Potsdam. CUBE is the only UK stop for a major international exhibition entitled Erich Mendelsohn: Dynamics and Functions, running up to February 2 2005.

Central Art Gallery in Ashton is exhibiting prints that focus on the dark hours of the day — plenty of those at this time of year! Nightscape comprises a collection of abstract prints by Maureen Stirk, which imitate the patterns and undulations of the subconscious mind (to January 15).

With the children back in school, now's the perfect time to see one of these exhibitions, or browse a permanent collection in Manchester's excellent museums and galleries. Don't forget to keep checking back on this city heritage guide for more throughout 2005.