Picasso at the AGO

 

"It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."

~ Pablo Picasso (1881-1973)

 

 

Picasso was one of the most influential and innovative artists of the 20th century. To gain perspective on both Picasso's life and works, there’s still time to experience Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris* at our MAP partner, the Art Gallery of Ontario. This collection features works from Picasso's own personal collection, and is on now, until August 26, 2012.   [* MAP passes are not valid for this special exhibition]

For this exhibit, Picasso’s 70 plus years of artistic output is organized into eight distinct periods:
From Spain to Paris 1900–1905 (Blue Period & Rose Period)
Making Way: Ancient, African and Oceanic Inspirations 1906–1909
Cubism, Collage and Constructions 1909–1915
Classicism, Marriage and Family 1914–1924
Surreal Anxiety and Desire 1924–1934
War Paintings: Of Love and War 1936–1939
War Paintings: World War II to Korean War 1940–1951
The Joy of Life 1950–1972

Picasso began his career painting in a traditional manner but not long after, in his twenties, he commenced his lifelong practice of experimenting with perspective, style and materials. Not only did he paint prolifically but he also produced sculptures, incorporated collage into his paintings and influenced the worlds of designs and ceramics.

I was first introduced to Picasso back in grade school art class. I don’t recall the exact painting but it was of a person, and I remember my classmates giggling because limbs and facial features were recognizable but positioned in an unconventional way. 

As a child I didn’t know what to make of Picasso’s abstract art. As an adult I am impressed by how dedicated he was to his craft and the limitless amount of talent and creativity he possessed.

Picasso died in 1973 but his work is still very relevant and surprisingly modern.