What Did Picasso Do in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, spent a significant amount of time in Madrid during his formative years. It was during this time that he honed his skills and developed his unique style that would later revolutionize the art world. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Picasso did in Madrid and how it influenced his art.

Early Years in Madrid

Picasso first arrived in Madrid at the tender age of 16 to study at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando. He was already a skilled artist, having received formal training from his father, who was an art teacher. However, he was eager to learn more and develop his own style.

During his first few months in Madrid, Picasso spent much of his time studying the works of great painters such as El Greco and Velázquez at the Prado Museum. He was particularly drawn to their use of color and light and incorporated these elements into his own work.

The Blue Period

Picasso’s time in Madrid coincided with what is now known as his Blue Period. This period is characterized by paintings that are predominantly blue in color and depict somber subjects such as poverty, loneliness, and despair.

Many art historians believe that Picasso’s Blue Period was influenced by the poverty he witnessed during his time in Madrid. He often painted beggars and other marginalized individuals who were struggling to survive.

Collaboration with Juan Gris

While in Madrid, Picasso also collaborated with fellow artist Juan Gris on several projects. They both shared a love for Cubism – an artistic movement characterized by geometric shapes and multiple perspectives.

Together they worked on a series of illustrations for a literary magazine called “Arte Joven” (Young Art). These illustrations showcased their unique style and helped establish them as leading figures in the art world.

Conclusion

Picasso’s time in Madrid was a crucial period in his development as an artist. It was during this time that he honed his skills, developed his unique style, and established himself as a leading figure in the art world. His experiences in Madrid influenced many of his most famous works and continue to inspire artists today.

  • Key Takeaways:
  • Picasso spent a significant amount of time in Madrid during his formative years.
  • During this time, he studied the works of great painters such as El Greco and Velázquez at the Prado Museum.
  • His time in Madrid coincided with his Blue Period, which is characterized by paintings that are predominantly blue in color and depict somber subjects such as poverty, loneliness, and despair.
  • Picasso collaborated with fellow artist Juan Gris on several projects while in Madrid, including a series of illustrations for a literary magazine called “Arte Joven” (Young Art).

Sources:

– “Pablo Picasso Biography.” Biography.com
– “Pablo Picasso: The Blue Period.”

The Art Story. – “Juan Gris Biography.” Encyclopedia Britannica.