“Picasso and Chicago,” opening to the public Feb. 20, 2013 at the Art Institute of Chicago, is more than a pretty (two-sided) face such as depicted in “The Red Armchair.”
A remarkable exhibit that covers several of the famed Spanish artist’s phases and projects, the show is worth allowing enough time to hear the audio explanations, read the boards about each phase and closely examine approximately 250 works.
On display are pieces ranging from deceptively simple line drawings to complex etchings and from somber Blue Period paintings and lithographs to joyful ceramics.
The boards and audio tapes explain how world events influence Picasso and other artists.
As an example, in the room featuring “Mother and Child” 1921, the narrator refers to classical and traditional movements in the art world after World War I. Show curator Stephanie D’Alessandro follows with a comment on Picasso. “He sees ancient Roman and Renaissance and Baroque art in Rome and Naples, and is inspired to make the kinds of monumental stone-like figures that you see here in this gallery and in this picture,” she says.
An extensive special exhibit, "Picasso and Chicago" fills Regenstein Hall but there is more to see. The Art Institute is using the exhibit to relate Picasso to influences on him and other artists in “The Picasso Effect.”
Tied to nine department galleries, subsidiary displays include “Self-Portrait” 1906 and “Three Musicians” 1921 on the 3rd floor of the Modern Wing on loan from the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Also on the Modern Wing’s 3rd floor in Gallery 391 is an Armory Show presentation that features the museum’s works from the 1913 exhibition whose 100 anniversary this year prompted the Art Institute show.
Additional department displays connect to Picasso’s interests and influences including “The Artist and the Poet,” in Galleries 124-127 near the main entrance.
A brochure on “The Picasso Effect” is at the special exhibit’s exit.
“Picasso and Chicago,” now open to members and open to the public Feb. 20, is at the Art Institute of Chicago through May 12, 2013. For admission fees and more information visit AIC and call 312-433-3600. The Art Institute of Chicago is 111 S. Michigan Ave. at Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60603.
Comments