What is Picasso's Style of Art Known As?

Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential figures in the art world, experimented with numerous styles during his illustrious career. As trends evolved, so did his artistic approach, making him a pioneer in the art movements of his time. This article delves into the evolution of Picasso's style, from his early experiments to his groundbreaking contributions to the art world.

Early Exploration and Expressionism

From a young age, Pablo Picasso painted in various styles, reflecting the changing trends of his era. He spent considerable time exploring a series of quasi-expressionistic periods, which laid the foundation for his later works. Throughout this period, his art was marked by intense emotional and psychological depth.

Cubism: A Revolution in Art

One of the most significant and transformative styles in Picasso's artistic journey is Cubism, which he co-developed along with his colleague George Braque. Cubism marked a radical departure from the traditional depiction of reality. Rather than creating a single, clear viewpoint, Cubist artists broke down objects into geometric shapes, allowing multiple perspectives to coexist on a flat surface.

The emergence of Cubism in the early 1900s coincided with the rise of psychology and brain science, as well as the fast-advancing industry and technology. The complexities and contrasts in global politics and culture at the time may have influenced Picasso as he sought to deconstruct reality and explore the abstract.

From Realism to Abstraction

Picasso's transition from realism to abstraction was not a casual one. He was initially hesitant to embrace Cubism but eventually embraced it wholeheartedly. Cubism allowed him to explore the intrinsic aspects of form to convey the context and emotional resonance of subjects.

This radical shift in style marked a turning point in Picasso's career, leading him to explore new mediums such as collage and assemblage, as well as sculpture and ceramic design. His innovative approach to art paved the way for a more abstract and interdisciplinary style that blended various artistic expressions.

Surrealism: Another Step Forward

After Cubism, Picasso continued to evolve his style, moving into Surrealism in the 1920s and 1930s. Surrealism, much like Cubism, was a movement that delved into the dreamlike and the subconscious, exploring the human emotional aspects of content.

During this period, Picasso continued to push the boundaries of art, producing works that were both jarring and thought-provoking. His exploration of Surrealism not only expanded his artistic horizons but also contributed to the broader cultural and intellectual movements of his time.

Artistic Mastery and Experimentation

Throughout his long and varied career, Picasso remained committed to constant experimentation and innovation. He was not content with resting on his laurels but continually pushed the boundaries of what was possible in art. His diverse output includes not only paintings but also designs for ceramics, sculpture, and even contributions to film and performance art.

Picasso's artistic philosophy can be summed up in his own words: 'Every act of creation is first of all an act of destruction.' This attitude towards his art underscored his belief that true artistic expression requires the deconstruction of traditional forms and the exploration of new possibilities.

Conclusion

Pablo Picasso's revolutionary approach to art remains a testament to his mastery and innovation. His styles, including Cubism and Surrealism, have left an indelible mark on the art world. Picasso's journey from early expressionism to these groundbreaking movements showcases his dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and his unwavering passion for exploring new ideas and forms.

References

[1] Pablo Picasso. Biography. (n.d.). Retrieved from [Website URL]

[2] Cubism. Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). Retrieved from [Website URL]

[3] Cubism and Picasso. The Louvre Museum. (n.d.). Retrieved from [Website URL]

[4] Picasso's Life and Legacy. MoMA (Museum of Modern Art). (n.d.). Retrieved from [Website URL]