The New Statesman | UK politics and culture
The untold story of Picasso's muses
Apr 7, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Sue Roe, author of *Hidden Portraits*, explores the lives of six remarkable women who were crucial to Picasso's artistry. She reveals how muses like Fernand Olivier and Olga Koklova influenced his transition from the Blue to the Rose periods and the dawn of cubism. Roe discusses the complexities of Picasso's relationships, including his manipulative behavior and the powerful impact these women had on his work. The discussion challenges listeners to appreciate art while acknowledging the artist's personal flaws.
31:04
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights that Picasso's muses were significant, independent women who played crucial roles in his artistic evolution rather than merely passive inspirations.
- It raises critical questions about the appreciation of art while acknowledging the problematic and manipulative behaviors of the artist towards those he loved.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Picasso's Muses
The relationship between Picasso and the women in his life is explored, highlighting their individuality and the complexity of their roles as more than mere muses. Sue Rowe's book emphasizes that these women were adventurers in their own right, exhibiting unique characteristics and backgrounds that influenced Picasso's artistic evolution. For instance, Fernand Olivier's impact on Picasso led to the birth of his Rose Period, showcasing her significant role in shaping his work during that transformative phase. This implies a more mutual and creative exchange, countering the traditional notion that they were only passive inspirations for his art.
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