Today is the birthday of probably one of the most famous modern artists, Pablo Picasso (or to give him his real name – Pablo Diego JoseFrancisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno Maria de los Remedios Cipriano de la Santisima Trinidad Ruiz y Picasso). Most people called him Picasso…… and no wonder!
La Celestina from Blue period
Picasso born in Spain 1881 – 1973 founded the Cubist movement. This painter, sculptor and draughtsman was the most innovative artist of his time. His paintings were always talking points and controversial. The artist is also known for his different coloured ‘periods’ e.g. Blue period, (1901 – 1904) in which the artist’s depicted beggars, prostitutes and mournful subjects. Whereas the Rose period is more cheerful period, with circus’s, Harlequins’ and comedy (1904 – 1906)
Les Damoiselles d;Avignon
Les Demoiselles d’Avignon is probably (along with the Weeping Woman and Guernica) one of Picasso’s famous works. This painting was based on the artist’s fascination with African masks and Primitive art. Picasso developed Cubism (1909 1912) with fellow artist Georges Braque. By analising shapes, dissecting them then re assembling them, Picasso was able to create new compositions and perspectives. Picasso’s preoccupation with Cubism was not met with enthusiasm by most critics at the time. Undaunted, he carried on exploring this new art form. This period was to last from 1907 to 1917, quite a long time for Picasso.
Guernica Picasso
Picasso remained neutral regarding the first and second World Wars and also the Spanish Civil War, refusing to fight or support either side on principle. Guernica however depicts the German bombing of this Basque city in the Spanish Civil War and is one of Picasso’s famous works. ‘The Weeping Woman’ adds a poignant farewell to this period.
picasso-weeping-woman-1937 based on Dora Maar
Picasso’ famous symbol ‘The Dove of Peace’ was produced for the World Peace Congress in 1949. There are many versions of this symbol and it is still used internationally. Picasso’s personal life has been much documented. He had two wives, four children by three women and many mistresses. Each of these relationships inspired paintings and periods. There’s an interesting website HERE that shows the paintings with their muses.
Fantastic amount of his paintings and life story HERE
I’ve seen this and other work of his at the Matisee Picasso exhibition at Tate Britain 2002. His work never dates, always looks fresh. Thanks for visiting Danielle 🙂
Echostains Blog 
I THINK THAT PACASSOS WORK IS AMAZING THE WEEPING WOMEN IS SO BEAUTIFUL
I’ve seen this and other work of his at the Matisee Picasso exhibition at Tate Britain 2002. His work never dates, always looks fresh. Thanks for visiting Danielle 🙂
Guernica remains as one of best in all history
I hope to see it one day:-)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PABLO