“It’s Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby” at The Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn
2 June, 2023 - 24 September, 2023
It's Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby is an extraordinary exhibition that brings a fresh and much-needed perspective to the legacy of the artistic giant, Pablo Picasso. The Brooklyn Museum, in collaboration with the Musée national Picasso-Paris, has crafted a remarkable showcase that challenges the traditional narrative surrounding Picasso's work while celebrating the brilliance of female artists who have often been overshadowed by the male-dominated art world.
Hannah Gadsby's involvement as a curator and her thought-provoking audio tour add a unique and essential dimension to the exhibition. Gadsby's comedic brilliance, as seen in her groundbreaking comedy special Nanette, brilliantly dismantles the pedestals on which some of art history's most renowned figures stand, including Picasso himself. With her sharp critique and incisive humor, she brings to light the complexities of Picasso's legacy, especially concerning misogyny, the concept of "genius," and the perpetuation of the art-historical canon.
The curation is exceptional, presenting over one hundred works that include both Picasso's masterpieces and selections from twentieth- and twenty-first-century women artists. By juxtaposing these artworks, It's Pablo-matic challenges viewers to reconsider the traditional narratives of art history and recognize the immense contributions of female artists throughout the years. The inclusion of artists like Cecily Brown, Renee Cox, Käthe Kollwitz, Dindga McCannon, Ana Mendieta, Marilyn Minter, Joan Semmel, Kiki Smith, May Stevens, and Mickalene Thomas showcases the diverse and powerful perspectives that women bring to the world of art.
The exhibition is a powerful testament to the evolution of art and society. It embraces complexity, recognizing Picasso's transformative power and lasting influence while not shying away from confronting the problematic aspects of his work. It's Pablo-matic reminds us that even the greatest artists are not immune to criticism and that art should always be open to interpretation and debate.
Moreover, the exhibition's exploration of misogyny and the role of women in art provides an essential platform for discussions about gender equity within the artistic realm. By foregrounding the voices of women artists, the exhibition aims to challenge the male-centric art world and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
It's Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby is an enlightening and essential experience that not only pays homage to Picasso's genius but also honors the invaluable contributions of women artists. The collaboration between the Brooklyn Museum and the Musée national Picasso-Paris has resulted in a remarkable global presentation, commemorating fifty years since Picasso's death while reimagining his legacy through a contemporary and feminist lens. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolving discourse around art, history, and gender, and it sets a remarkable precedent for future curatorial endeavors in the art world.
