: Read (Plagens, Peter, Newsweek, 7/2/2007, Vol. 150, Issue 2) and review ’ (Associated Press, 2006). These resources better explain how artists were influenced and inspired by other artists, social influences and cultures, including Picasso himself while painting “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon”. Write a 1-2 page paper discussing the following topics: You may use resources from the Rasmussen library. Use APA format for proper citation.
Title: Picasso’s “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” and Artistic Influences
Introduction:
Pablo Picasso’s groundbreaking painting, “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” (1907) represents a significant departure from the artistic conventions of its time. This paper aims to explore how Picasso was influenced and inspired by other artists, social influences, and cultures during the creation of this iconic artwork. To gain a deeper understanding of these influences, we will examine primary sources, such as Peter Plagens’ article from Newsweek (2007) and an Associated Press piece (2006), as well as supplement our analysis with additional resources.
Influence of Other Artists:
Picasso’s engagement with the work of other artists played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic vision. Through his encounters with and study of the art of Cézanne, African sculpture, and Iberian art, Picasso absorbed various aesthetic elements that found expression in “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.” Cézanne’s approach to form and geometric simplification significantly impacted Picasso’s development of a new visual language. Plagens emphasizes that by integrating Cézanne’s fragmented forms, Picasso experimented with breaking down the human figure into geometric planes and sharp angles characteristic of the final composition.
Furthermore, Picasso’s fascination with African tribal art, evident in his exploration of masks and sculptures, provided him with a source of inspiration for the primitive, yet powerful, aesthetic qualities displayed in “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.” The Associated Press article (2006) highlights how the inclusion of African art motifs taps into the primal and symbolic aspects of human existence, challenging Euro-centric notions of beauty and representation.
Social Influences:
The socio-political climate of the early 20th century, marked by the rise of industrialization and the influx of diverse cultures into metropolitan centers, greatly influenced Picasso’s artistic experimentation. Plagens suggests that Picasso’s exposure to the thriving bohemian scene in Paris, with its vibrant mix of intellectuals, writers, and artists, provided him with the necessary milieu to push artistic boundaries. This environment not only facilitated encounters and discussions among artists, but also introduced Picasso to the intellectual currents of the time, such as the emerging philosophies of existentialism and primitivism.
Furthermore, Plagens argues that Picasso’s engagement with the feminist movement and the changing roles of women in society influenced his conception of “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.” The depiction of five female figures in the painting challenges conventional notions of female beauty and sexual objectification. Instead, Picasso’s portrayal presents a powerful and confrontational image that subverts expected societal norms.
Cultural Influences:
Picasso’s Spanish heritage and cultural background significantly impacted his artistic strategies and subject matter. While living in Barcelona and Paris, Picasso maintained connections with Spanish cultural traditions, particularly traditional Spanish art, which employed bold colors, expressive forms, and emotional intensity. These elements are perceptible in “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” as Plagens asserts that Picasso’s use of intense colors and angular forms draw upon the flamboyant palette and emotional vigor found in Spanish art.
Moreover, Plagens suggests that the inclusion of Avignon in the painting’s title references the Spanish ritual of brothels being attached to Catholic churches. By incorporating this cultural reference, Picasso subtly criticizes the conventional moral and religious attitudes of his time while also celebrating the free expression of sexuality.
Conclusion:
In summary, Picasso’s masterpiece, “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” emerged from a complex tapestry of artistic influences, social dynamics, and cultural heritage. Through his engagement with other artists, such as Cézanne, and his exploration of African and Spanish art, Picasso synthesized diverse aesthetic elements, ultimately reshaping the artistic landscape. Furthermore, the socio-political climate and evolving role of women in society provided additional impetus for Picasso’s creative endeavors. By critically examining primary sources and scholarly analyses, we are able to trace the multifaceted influences that contributed to the creation of this groundbreaking artwork. “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” stands as a testament to Picasso’s mastery and his ability to transcend artistic conventions by fusing disparate influences into a unified and revolutionary visual language.