International Artists Day celebrated on Picasso’s 134th birthday

October 25th marks two special occasions.

The first is the birthday of Pablo Picasso, arguably one of the best-known artists of all time, whose family name is synonymous with art and artistry. 

Picasso was a painter, sculptor, ceramicist, printmaker, designer and more; he is often credited as an inventor of collage and as the founder of Cubism, and his lasting influence on Modern art is indisputable. 

His career began around 1900 in Parisian cafes, where he painted colourful versions of cabaret performers, flaneurs, beggars and drinkers.

Through his blue and red periods he continued to paint in a relatively traditional style, but soon he developed a revolutionary Cubist style in collaboration with fellow artist George Braque. 

However, with one of the most recognizable aesthetics of any modern art museum, Picasso is almost a genre of his own.

The second occasion within this day is International Artist Day, which was launched in 2004 to honour the contribution artists make to society.

International Artist Day was founded by Chris MacClure, a Canadian artist who specializes in the style known as ‘Romantic Realism’. He created this day to bring recognition to the world of art, and to celebrate all the ways that artists bring their own special view to life.

The occasion has grown steadily in popularity around the world, and over the last few years has taken on a life of its own.

The best way to celebrate International Artist Day is to support your local artists, to get back to your craft and bring something personal into your life through artistic expression, or to visit your local artistic establishments.

Come and discuss Picasso’s birthday and International Artist Day on the Poetry & Art! Online forum and join the conversation!