Pablo Picasso artworks
Pablo Picasso (1881–1973) is one of the most important innovators in modern art. In his work, he continually explores how to depict reality, ranging from recognisable figures to almost abstract forms. At the Kröller-Müller Museum, you can see this quest reflected in paintings, drawings and a remarkable sculpture: a playful little owl made from everyday materials. This gives you a good idea of just how versatile and experimental Picasso was, and why his work continues to surprise us to this day.
Helene’s collection of Pablo Picasso artworks
Helene was a great admirer of Van Gogh and initially collected many paintings and drawings by this artist. Later she feels the need to collect art for the general public. With this collection she wants to illustrate the development of modern art. Above all, Helene wants to show the public that two movements were constantly alternating: realism and idealism. Thus the work of a true idealist like Pablo Picasso became indispensable for her art collection. She acquires various paintings, drawings, sculptures, and abstract art by this modern master.
Pablo Picasso, Violon, 1911-1912
Picasso’s vision of reality
As an artist, Picasso is constantly observing reality. Precisely how he views reality is reflected in his artworks. The artist is always looking for new ways to create art. Under the motto 'I don't look but I find', he discovers the most inventive ways to produce art.
Pablo Picasso, Petite chouette, 1951-1953
Pablo Picasso artworks: the little owl is a visitors’ favourite
In 2004 the museum acquires Pablo Picasso's Petite Chouette. The little owl quickly becomes a visitors' favourite. This alert little creature looks almost improvised. The owl is made of found objects. An earthenware bowl symbolises the body, and Picasso uses the lid of a tin can as the head. He makes the legs, wings, and eyes from nails, screws, nuts and bolts, and the beak from parts of a pair of pliers. All this is held together with plaster.
Pablo Picasso paintings and Picasso drawings
There is almost no discernible consistent line in the style of Pablo Picasso's artworks. The artist chooses the style that suits his mood at that moment. In this way, his mood is expressed in art. From one moment to the next, Picasso could switch from his Cubist paintings to drawings with abstract forms.
Picasso’s development
The beginning of Picasso's career is known as the blue period. Pablo Picasso's paintings were dark in colour and contained many cool tones. He lives in Paris at the time and has not yet achieved great success. In the following period, the artist's popularity increases. Picasso also begins a relationship. In his paintings, you can see that he has a more positive outlook on life. Picasso’s paintings take on brighter colours, and this period is therefore known as the Rose Period.
Which Picassos can you see in the museum?
In addition to the little owl made from found objects, you’ll regularly see paintings, Picasso’s line drawings and other abstract works by Picasso in the museum. Violon and Guitare, for example, are frequently on display in the permanent collection. Take a sneak peek at the Picasso collection. Here you can also find out which artworks are currently on display.
