Between 1926 and 1932, Pablo Picasso explored the tension between figuration and abstraction, producing works that delved into surrealism, emotional expression, and complex relationships with form and space. This period is particularly marked by:
1. Transition to Surrealism
• While Picasso did not officially join the Surrealist movement, his works during this time often reflected surrealist themes, including:
• Distorted, fragmented forms.
• Symbolism rooted in dreams, subconscious desires, and sexuality.
• An emotional intensity that bordered on psychological exploration.
2. Exploration of the Human Form
• Picasso began breaking the human figure into biomorphic shapes, blending abstraction with figuration.
• His depictions of the human body during this time were often grotesque, erotic, and distorted, reflecting complex emotional states.
• Example: His “Bone Women” series features angular, skeletal forms that verge on abstraction, emphasizing tension and unease.
3. Focus on Marie-Thérèse Walter
• Picasso began a passionate relationship with Marie-Thérèse Walter in 1927, and her presence deeply influenced his art.
• During this period, Marie-Thérèse became a muse for many of his works, appearing in:
• Sensual, dreamlike portraits with soft, rounded forms.
• Symbolic and surreal depictions that blurred her identity with organic shapes like fruits and plants.
4. Sculptural Influences
• Picasso’s interest in sculpture intensified during this period, and this is evident in his paintings, which often resemble three-dimensional assemblages.
• His experiments with materials and textures in sculpture informed his two-dimensional works, creating a unique interplay of volumes and surfaces.
5. Notable Works
“The Painter and His Model” (1927)
• A semi-abstract exploration of the relationship between the artist and muse, reflecting Picasso’s ongoing fascination with creation and sexuality.
“The Large Nude in Red Armchair” (1929)
• A distorted, surreal depiction of a reclining woman, possibly influenced by his relationship with Marie-Thérèse Walter.
• This work emphasizes emotional intensity through the deformation of the human figure.
“The Kiss” (1931)
• A surreal, intimate depiction of lovers, blending organic and geometric forms to evoke both tenderness and tension.
Sculpture: “Woman in the Garden” (1929-1930)
• A monumental, surrealist-inspired sculpture made of welded metal, reflecting Picasso’s innovative approach to materials.
6. Emotional and Symbolic Depth
• These works often carry intense emotional symbolism, grappling with themes such as:
• Desire and Eros: Inspired by his relationship with Marie-Thérèse.
• Conflict and Fragmentation: Expressed through distorted figures.
• Dreams and the Subconscious: Reflecting surrealist ideas.
7. Influences and Impact
• Picasso’s work during this period was influenced by:
• The Surrealist movement, including André Breton and Salvador Dalí.
• His personal relationships, particularly with Marie-Thérèse.
• The broader cultural climate of the interwar years, marked by tension and uncertainty.
• These works bridged the gap between his earlier Cubist experiments and the emotional weight of his later masterpieces, such as Guernica (1937).
Conclusion
Between 1926 and 1932, Picasso’s work became increasingly emotional, symbolic, and abstract, often reflecting his personal life and the broader influence of surrealism. This period represents a dynamic phase of experimentation and transformation, showcasing Picasso’s ability to innovate while engaging deeply with the emotional and psychological dimensions of art.
