Pablo Picasso, one of the most famous artists in history, studied in Madrid during his formative years. Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Picasso studied in Madrid and how it influenced his art.
Early Life of Pablo Picasso
Picasso was born in Malaga, Spain, in 1881. His father was an art teacher who taught him the basics of drawing and painting.
At the age of 16, he moved to Madrid to study at the Royal Academy of San Fernando. This was a turning point in his life as he was exposed to new styles and techniques that inspired him to create his own unique style.
The Art Scene in Madrid
Madrid was a hub of artistic activity during Picasso’s time there. The city had several museums and galleries that showcased works by famous artists such as Diego Velazquez and Francisco Goya. Picasso spent most of his time exploring these museums and studying the works on display.
The Prado Museum
One museum that had a profound impact on Picasso was The Prado Museum. This museum houses an extensive collection of Spanish art from the 12th to the early 20th century. It was here that Picasso first saw works by El Greco, Velazquez, and Goya – artists who would later influence his own work.
The Royal Academy of San Fernando
Picasso also attended classes at The Royal Academy of San Fernando during his time in Madrid. Here he learned traditional painting techniques such as oil painting, watercolor, and charcoal drawing. While he appreciated these techniques, he felt constrained by them and began experimenting with new styles.
Cubism
Picasso’s exposure to new styles and techniques in Madrid led him to develop his own unique style – Cubism. Cubism is an abstract style of painting that breaks down objects into geometric shapes. Picasso’s early works in this style were heavily influenced by African art, which he had seen in museums in Madrid.
Conclusion
Picasso’s time in Madrid was a crucial period in his artistic development. His exposure to new styles and techniques, as well as the works of famous artists, inspired him to create his own unique style – Cubism. The city’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions played a significant role in shaping Picasso’s artistic vision and legacy.