¶ … prolific artists in modern history, Pablo Picasso continues to satisfy viewers and critics alike. Picasso's early training as a classical artist prepared him for the revolutionary turns in his career. As co-developer of cubism with Georges Braque, Picasso astounded audiences and encouraged artists to rethink their perceptions of the world. He drew upon the techniques mastered by the Impressionists to forge his own identity and style, an artistic vision that remains inspirational and salient in the art world. Picasso's early works often appear so classically rendered as to astound the student of modern art. His version of "Moulin de la Galette" (1900) depicts virtually the same scene as Renoir's masterpiece of the same name. Picasso's palette is darker than Renoir's, his mood more intense. In "Young Girl Wearing a Large Hat" (1901) we see a decisively impressionist piece; the colors are bright and lively, even as the girl's intense stare haunts the viewer. The elongated brush strokes in this painting are reminiscent...

However, Picasso's solid blocks of rich jewel tones in "Spanish Couple Before An Inn" (1900) evoke Matisse or Gaugin. His versatility already apparent, Picasso's early training helped him develop the technical skills required to master his profession. But soon the artist yearned to break free of the confines of traditional techniques, even the newer Impressionistic ones. As personal, unique expression became increasingly in vogue by the turn of the century, Picasso was able to dive into new visual territory.
During his stay in Paris, Picasso's work evolved into what art historians call his "blue period." With a palette comprised almost entirely of shades of blue, Picasso portrayed his subjects with melancholy simplicity. The "Blue Nude" (1902) utilizes an economy of line to convey the actual subject, but the canvass is splashed, almost sponge-like, with violet and blue hues. His 1901 "Self-Portrait" contains a stark contrast of his pale face against black robes; the background is a uniform midnight…