MUSEmemoirs

Info

Dates: 18.10.23 – 15.01.24

Curator: Anne Lemonnier & Johan Popelard

Where: Centre Pompidou

Price: 17 euro/ 14 reduced

Dive into Picasso’s universe from an unconventional angle with this expansive exhibition, focused on the graphic works of the renowned painter. Thanks to collaborations with the Musée Picasso of Paris and esteemed Spanish museums, the collection boasts a remarkable diversity—ranging from works on paper, pastels, ink, engravings to illustrated books. The exhibition offers a fascinating journey into the artistic mind of the painter, considering that many of the drawings displayed acted as the starting point for many celebrated canvases.

The display is impressive, altough occasionally a bit disorienting. The exhibition floor of Pompidou remains as it is, an open space, with drawings disposed on every surface – on the walls, in thematic alcoves, on panels hanging from the ceiling – creating a sort of ‘maze-like’ route. The result is an immersive experience, where the abundance of works unfolds with each step, surprising the visitors.

Encompassing Picasso’s formative teenage years to his more mature works, the exhibition showcases remarkable diversity. A few videos offer glimpses of Picasso at work. The section on illustrated books houses rare gems, and particularly special is the extensive collection of Picasso’s sketchbooks, offering insights into the artist’s creative process.

As part of the commemorative program for the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death, 2023 has been marked by a multitude of exhibitions globally dedicated to the painter. The choice of Centre Pompidou of fousing on this peculiar theme is original and provides the audience with fresh perspectives to interpret the career of such a prolific painter.

My personal highlights:

• Le Taureau (The Taurus)
• Minotaure
• Femme accoudée
• Jeune femme au chapeau rouge