Pablo Picasso 1881–1973
Influential Spanish Artist
In his lifetime, the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso was more famous than almost any artist has ever been. His work was seen by millions who loved, reviled, ridiculed, and adored it. Picasso was a supremely talented artist who could paint realistic images as well as the masters. Yet he chose not to. Instead, Picasso challenged people, often inventing new styles. Picasso is probably most famous for being the co-founder of a style of art called Cubism.
The wars in Europe affected his art. Guernica, a painting that many people consider to be his masterpiece, showed the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. Picasso, who spent most of his life in France, caused controversy by supporting Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.
Unlike many great artists, his talents were not limited to one or two styles. He successfully used different kinds of paint and ink and also worked as a sculptor. Today, Picasso is remembered as one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century.
Critical Thinking
Why is Picasso's art admired?