Picasso at the Met

Do you prefer the Blue Period or the Rose Period? Cubism or classicism? Or are you uncertain as to what I’m referring? No matter—a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art will help you to answer all of these questions and more.

Starting today, the Met will be featuring an exhibit devoted solely to the works of Pablo Picasso in the museum’s holdings. This means that over 300 of Picasso’s works will be on display, from paintings and drawings to sculptures and ceramic pieces, a collection which has never before been seen in its entirety.

Born in 1881 in Spain, Picasso began painting and drawing at the age of seven. In 1900, he moved to Paris, the art capital of Europe, to work and study in an attempt to further his artistic career, a move that paid off, as, by 1905, he became an established artist moving in prominent artistic and literary circles.

Picasso is best known as the founder of Cubism, a style of painting recognized by its use of one-dimensional shapes. But Picasso’s lengthy career (he lived to the age of 92) consisted of a variety of styles and experimentation. His work prior to 1901 is considered mostly realist, while in 1901 he moved on to his Blue Period, noted for its somber subject matter depicted in shades of blue and green. 1904 began Picasso’s Rose Period, classified by a more upbeat style that featured lively subject matter in warm oranges and pinks.

1907 to 1909 was Picasso’s African-influenced Period, while 1909 to 1912 marked his Cubist years. Following Cubism, Picasso moved on to neoclassicism and surrealism and, in his later years, focused on reinterpreting the works of the great masters.

Works from all stages of Picasso’s productive career will be exhibited at the Met now through August 1. Some of the most notable pieces on display include At the Lapin Agile, Picasso’s portrait of friend Gertrude Stein, Self-Portrait “Yo”, and Seated Harlequin. There are works from all of the artist’s major periods, as well as a selection of his prints.

Whether you’re a tried and true Picasso fan or someone who knows little about his life and works, “Picasso in the Metropolitan Museum of Art” is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this versatile artist and his remarkable career.

“Picasso in the Metropolitan Museum of Art” will be on display in the Special Exhibition Galleries on the 2nd floor today through August 1, 2010. Free with museum admission.