The artwork entitled “Artist’s studio on street La Boetie” was created by Pablo Picasso in 1920. It belongs to the Cubism art movement, a revolutionary style pioneered by Picasso and Georges Braque. The piece is an interior genre work with dimensions of 62.5 x 48 cm. It showcases a scene from an artist’s studio, providing a fascinating insight into the creative space of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
In the artwork, one finds a space teeming with creative clutter, indicative of a place where art is not just made but lived. The composition includes a variety of frames, possibly containing unfinished works, which lean against the walls and furniture, giving the room a sense of depth and dynamism. A central easel displays a painting that draws the viewer’s eye, serving as a focal point amongst the intricacies of the studio’s environment. Furthermore, there appears to be another easel or support to the right, holding an additional canvas.
Various objects scattered throughout the studio contribute to a feeling of active use and artistic exploration. The inclusion of these elements, alongside musical instruments such as the guitar hanging on the wall, suggests a multidisciplinary approach to art and expression. The linear quality of the drawing, possibly a pencil or charcoal sketch, demonstrates an attention to structural detail that is characteristic of Cubism’s analytical phase.
The windows, or possibly open shutters, at the top of the composition allow for a source of natural light, illuminating the interior and creating a connection to the world outside the studio. This lighting strategy enhances the three-dimensionality of the objects within and casts subtle shadows that play against the lines and forms. The depiction of the artist’s studio by Picasso not only reveals his personal space but also offers a broader reflection on the artistic process and the environment where creativity comes to fruition.