Pablo Picasso: Relentless Innovation

Few artists have shaped the course of modern art as profoundly as Pablo Picasso (1881 – 1973). His artistic journey was characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation as he continually reinvented his style and experimented with new modes of art making. Over the course of his long and prolific career, he worked across a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, and theater design, redefining the possibilities of each. This spirit of constant exploration is at the heart of this exhibition, which celebrates the artist’s eclectic output and enduring influence. Pablo Picasso: Relentless Innovation is drawn from GRAM’s permanent collection and includes twenty-five works by Picasso from 1905 to 1962 focusing on his eclectic use of multiple mediums, including painting, printmaking, and ceramics in many of his signature styles. 

Picasso’s versatility and innovation opened new creative pathways for the artists that followed. His work encouraged artists to challenge tradition and explore their ideas across many different mediums. He was particularly influential on British artist David Hockney, whose work is concurrently on view in GRAM’s first and second floor galleries. Several works in the exhibition pay direct homage to Picasso, including The Student and Artist and Model, which each offer a unique perspective on Hockney’s relationship with his idol. 

Leonard and Eddi Wolk, In memory of Martin and Enid Packard