Art galleries usually exhibit works representing numerous areas of fine art. But how surprising it is to see one artist's paintings in different styles and techniques. You will have such an opportunity when visiting the Picasso Museum in Barcelona. Since admission to this museum is free for children, it is worth taking this chance and introducing your child to the work of one of the most famous Spanish artists.
The Museu Picasso de Barcelona exposition is based on works carefully preserved by the artist's friend and secretary, Jaime Sabartes. Most paintings are from Picasso's early period. Still, the museum also has an excellent collection of Blue Period paintings, a few Pink Period paintings, and late post-World War II paintings. In total, the museum exhibits about 3,800 paintings. Arranged in chronological order, they allow you to trace the development of Picasso as an artist.
What can especially captivate children? Perhaps Picasso's attempts to take a fresh look at Velazquez's Las Meninas. The artist created 58 variations of Velazquez's painting. You can discuss with the child what smooth lines and sharp corners, the colours chosen for different characters, say to him.
Children also look with interest at Picasso's drawings made by him in adolescence. They pay attention to the artist's self-portraits and the portraits of Jaime Sabartes — realistic and surreal, between the creation of which 40 years have passed.
Do not be upset if the child wants to pay attention not to paintings but to museum buildings. The collection is housed in several mansions on the old street of Moncada. Houses began being built here in the 12th century, so the whole street resembles a museum. When looking at Picasso's paintings, don't forget to admire the architecture and look into the beautiful courtyard.
After the tour ends, make a small purchase in the museum shop. Let the child choose a card with a reproduction of the painting that caught his attention. The Ciutadella Park and the Chocolate Museum are not far from the Pablo Picasso Museum in Barcelona.
