What Kind of Art Did Picasso Do?
Pablo Picasso remains one of the greatest and most innovative artists of the 20th century. His work varied in style, ranging from early works that reveal an amazingly talented child to the effortless and productive periods of his late years. Influenced by the vivacious art scene surrounding him, Picasso created a characteristic style all his own that remains influential in art today.
Types
Picasso drew, painted, sculpted, created collages, worked in clay, and designed theatrical sets and costumes. His personal style during the different periods of his life impacted all of his work, in every type of media.
The Early Years
Picasso's early works--dating from 1896 to 1905--reveal a classically trained young artist. He was clearly well aware of the vital and energetic art all around him, influenced by both modern art and works from the past.
Cubism
Working with geometric angles, simplified shapes and classical shading techniques, Picasso became the father of cubism. The cubist style developed between 1906 and 1910, with the Demoiselles d'Avignon frequently called the first cubist work.
Classicism
After World War I, Picasso returned to his classical roots. His works in the 1930s reveal his acquaintance with the surrealist movement in bold color, whimsical shapes and a playful juxtaposition of images.
Picasso as a Political Artist
Picasso was the most famous artist of his day. The famous Guernica is the best known portrayal of the fascism and brutality of the Spanish civil war in Picasso's homeland.
The Late Period
Picasso's late years were some of his most productive ones. He painted the women he loved and the people who mattered to him. He also created works based on the Old Masters of Europe.
