Pablo Picasso
's art encompasses a variety of artistic medium and styles. Like many artists of his generation, Picasso's works reflected changing philosophical trends as well as global events. During the later years of his career, Picasso produced ceramic artwork, sculptures and several celebrated paintings. By the end of his life, Picasso had become a celebrity figure.
Ceramics
In 1946, Picasso traveled to the Madoura Pottery workshop in Vallauris, France. In exchange for the right to sell his creations, Picasso was given an unlimited supply of materials and studio time by the owners of Madoura Pottery.
Picasso's ceramic creations required the help of a knowledgeable assistant. As Picasso did not form his own vessels, he shaped and modified clay templates produced by Jules Agard. Picasso regularly visited Madoura Pottery for the rest of his life and produced thousands of ceramic pieces that are frequently auctioned today.
Painting
In the final years of his life, Picasso's output of paintings increased significantly. Although many of these pieces were heavily criticized, some have become notable highlights of his career. Noteworthy paintings include "Rape of the Sabines" and "Buste" Many of his final paintings merge different stylistic techniques. Although these works were the product of a lifetime's experiences, they displayed a level of simplicity not previously seen in Picasso's paintings. In 1956, Picasso stated, "When I was as old as these children, I could draw like Raphael, but it took me a lifetime to learn to draw like them."
Printmaking
In the final decades of his life, Picasso experimented with several different printmaking processes. Etching, a popular printmaking method that involves carving an image into a metal plate in order to create a printing plate, was one of many techniques that Picasso studied and mastered. In 1968, Picasso created over 347 etchings. Picasso also produced lithographs and linocuts.
