New Picasso exhibition with never-before-seen works to open in Manchester

A new Pablo Picasso exhibition that includes works never-before-seen is coming to Manchester this month.

Opening at Castle Fine Art Mon 9 Mar, The Picasso: A Legacy comprises over 35 original works on paper and ceramics created by the artist from the mid 1930’s to his death in 1973.

Visitors will be guided through the last four decades of Picasso’s life, where they will encounter the artist’s lovers and muses, mythological alter egos, playful zoomorphic ceramics, as well as feats of frantic artistic output in Picasso’s final decade.

Featured in the exhibition are individual editions, as well as complete portfolios and books such as Nature morte aux poires et au pichet (c. 1960) and La Guerre et la paix (1954).

The ceramics on display will include Joueur de flûte (1951) and Yan soleil (1963). These three-dimensional experiments are part of a wider selection which encompasses the years 1948 to 1968 made while Picasso was living in the south of France.

Throughout his career, Picasso repeatedly turned to a cast of mythical creatures, archetypes and characters as symbolic representations of himself. The exhibition will examine how minotaurs, fauns, bulls, matadors and owls populated his work, serving as alter egos through which he could express the powerful impulses of desire, passion, vitality and mortality.

The final theme explores his muses who shaped the trajectory of his art and fueled his creative energy. Femme Endormie (Dormeuse) (1962/63), featuring Marie-Thérèse Walter, and Tête de jeune fille 1(1945), featuring Françoise Gilot are amongst the portraits exhibited.

Ian Weatherby-Blythe, Managing Director, Castle Fine Art, said: “We believe everyone should be able to experience the joy of fine art and it is a privilege to share this exhibition from one the most influential artists of the 20th century. Picasso: A Legacy is open to all to enjoy at our Manchester,
King Street gallery, and features over 35 original artworks from the extraordinary last four decades of Picasso’s life.”

Picasso: A Legacy will be on view from 10am (GMT) on Mon 9 Mar until Mon 4 May at Castle Fine Art. The exhibition is free to enter and open daily.