A genius of modern art, a visionary and daring pioneer of Cubism, Pablo Picasso is undoubtedly the most famous and influential artist of the 20th century.

Born in 1880 in Malaga, Picasso revealed an exceptional talent for drawing from a very young age. At only 13, he was admitted to the School of Fine Arts in Barcelona, and later joined the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid.

Picasso's early works are characterized by their color palette. The Blue Period, which reflects elements of Parisian daily life, is marked by existential themes. It was followed by the Rose Period, introducing more lyrical subjects, such as jugglers, acrobats, and other performers.

Picasso's transition to Cubism is highlighted by Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, now recognized as a global masterpiece. His style effortlessly moves across different media, from ceramics to sculpture, and even collage.

The Spanish Civil War and the bombings by Franco’s government horrified Picasso and inspired him to paint Guernica. This powerful anti-war statement was exhibited the same year at the Spanish pavilion of the Paris World Fair. Guernica is now preserved in the collections of the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid.

Picasso continued a prolific body of work until his death in April. His works are housed in the world’s most important private and public collections and continue to inspire young artists.

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