It is common to think of art as more than a sellable object. The artists who receive big checks for a painting or a sculpture are often despised by purist critics. On the other hand, we cannot conceive the idea of them living only for the love of art.
Rumor has it that Picasso was working in his studio when a person came by and began to admire his paintings. Amazed by his production, the man asked the Malagueño about the meaning of his work, Pablo answered: “200.000 dollars.”
Had he corrupted his artistic soul by talking about money, instead of giving a poetic explanation? The answer is debatable; nevertheless, we could argue that he had debts to pay, like we all do.
The relationship between creativity and business is not a matter that applies exclusively to the Contemporary Art. Being a genius artist does not imply poverty. Picasso discovered the perfect balance, he was passionate about his profession, and he also understood the need to be monetarily rewarded for it.
He created a brand surrounding his work and at the same time enjoyed the process of creation.
Here are some of Pablo Picasso’s lessons that will help you become a well round artist, and ultimately a legend.
Discover what you’re passionate about.
“When I was a child my mother said to me: ‘If you become a soldier, you’ll be a general. If you become a monk, you’ll be the pope.’ Instead I became a painter and wound up as Picasso.”
Break down your mental barriers.
“Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not. ”… “Everything you can imagine is real.”
Be different
“The chief enemy of creativity is ‘good’ sense… The urge to destroy is also a creative urge.”
Learn by doing
“I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.”
Believe you can do it
“He can who thinks he can, and he can’t who thinks he can’t. This is an inexorable, indisputable law.”
Do
“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.”
Create
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
Experiment
“God is just another artist. He invented the giraffe, the elephant and the cat. He has no real style, He just goes on trying other things.”
Evolve
“Success is dangerous. One begins to copy oneself, and to copy oneself is more dangerous than to copy others. It leads to sterility.”
Find the balance between business and pleasure
“Never allow a dichotomy to rule your life, a dichotomy in which you hate everything you do so you can have pleasure in your spare time. Look for a situation in which your work will give you as much happiness as your spare time.”
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Picasso never let his creative streak be diminished by the pressures of money. He was down to earth at all times, and prided himself for his effort to maintain a unique narrative aesthetic.
He constantly renewed himself and his work, he took risks, and faced day to day challenges. His lessons can be applied at all times and for all professions.
