Iconoclast Part 4 of 4: Pablo Picasso
April 8, 2010 by dr. lam
We explored this unique personage, Pablo Picasso, recently in Gladwell’s book, What the Dog Saw. In that book, we evaluated how Picasso represented the “conceptual” artist who was deemed brilliant at the outset. However, beyond his remarkable ideas that he presented, he did so in an amazingly well packaged manner so that others bought it. When he died in 1973, his estate was valued then at over $750 million.
Take as a point of contrast, Vincent Van Gogh, who died penniless despite his great talent. He had a limited circle of friends, if any, and is remembered for the grotesque “gift” of his severed ear to the fellow artist, Paul Gauguin, as a result of a personal dispute. In short, Van Gogh repelled others from him, whereas Picasso’s charisma drew hordes around him.
Picasso at 5’3” was not a man of stature but he was loved by numerous women whom he took as lovers. He was always the center of attention in any social circle and was able to charm and endear himself to those who mattered. He produced over 13,000 paintings and drawings and over 300 sculptures, making him the most prolific artist ever, especially compared to Van Gogh’s more paltry sum of 900 paintings during his lifetime.
What made Picasso successful was the combination of a different perception, lack of fear, but also his ability for social integration. He was able to convince others that his vision was true in an effortless and remarkable way. This is the third trait of the iconoclast.
The book is rich in discussion of the complex neurobiology that creates the platform upon which one can become uniquely different and excel beyond others’ expectations. I think that these short tales of individual iconoclasts can help shape a budding iconoclast by pointing out the basic steps to achieve a different vision that ultimately can lead to a different world.
Comments
6 Responses to “Iconoclast Part 4 of 4: Pablo Picasso”
Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
Excellent point, Dr. Lam! Great example! Thanks so much for sharing this with us, Dr. Lam!!
I agree.
Also, I think that apartment explains the “numerous women”. haha (It’s beautiful!)
Thanks.
the fact that it was in paris didn’t hurt either. lol.
Of course I was having fun, being silly. Surely, ineffable qualities made him who he was.
no, i got it. that was hilarious.
sml
Funny guys!..lol