Cubist abstract picasso style

Cubism, pioneered by Picasso and Braque in the early 20th century, revolutionized art by shattering objects into geometric forms and multiple perspectives.

About this subject

Cubism was a radical artistic movement that emerged between 1907 and 1914, led by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Inspired by African art and the works of Cézanne, cubism rejected Renaissance perspective and depicted objects in a fragmented form, revealing their different sides simultaneously. The early phase, known as Analytical Cubism (1908-1912), deconstructed objects into angular planes and neutral colors, as seen in Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" (1907). Synthetic Cubism (1912-1914) incorporated collage, brighter colors, and simplified forms, exemplified by Picasso's "Still Life with Chair Caning" (1912).

Picasso, born in Málaga, Spain, in 1881, is one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. His cubist work extended beyond painting into sculpture, such as the iconic "Head of a Woman" (1909). The cubist movement profoundly influenced other fields, including architecture, music, and design. In Brazil, cubism arrived in the early 20th century, influencing artists like Tarsila do Amaral and Anita Malfatti, who participated in the 1922 Week of Modern Art.

An interesting fact: the term "cubism" was coined pejoratively by critic Louis Vauxcelles, who likened the geometric forms to “cubes.” The movement, however, was embraced by artists and critics, becoming a cornerstone of modern art. Despite its short duration, cubism left a lasting legacy, influencing movements such as Futurism, Constructivism, and Abstract art.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who founded Cubism?

Cubism was founded by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, with later contributions from artists like Juan Gris and Fernand Léger.

What are the main characteristics of Cubism?

Key characteristics include fragmentation of forms, multiple perspectives, geometric shapes, abandonment of Renaissance perspective, and collage (in Synthetic Cubism).

Did Cubism influence Brazilian art?

Yes, Cubism influenced Brazilian modernist artists such as Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, and Di Cavalcanti, especially during the 1922 Week of Modern Art.