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"Guernica" by Pablo Picasso

Bozhena Ovcharenko

Nova Study Academy

World Cultures

Lydia Novytska Teacher

December 22, 2023

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Abstract

"Guernica," the famous painting by Pablo Picasso that he painted in reaction to the bombing

of the town of Guernica in the Spanish Civil War, is analyzed in this article as a potent anti-

war statement. An examination of Picasso's life and work is conducted within the framework

of the Spanish Civil War and its historical background. "Guernica" is analyzed as a

monument to the atrocities of war, with its warped shapes, monochromatic color scheme,

and powerful emotional impact. The artwork symbolized anti-fascism and anti-war sentiment

during its time and continues to depict the human cost of conflict, while also having an

immediate and enduring impact on society, as highlighted in the report. "Guernica"

transcends its historical beginnings to become a worldwide expression of the artist's role in

forming communal consciousness by its narrative, emotional depth, and cultural effect. It

emerges as a major work of art.

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Art Work Selected:

Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" is the featured artwork. Pablo Picasso, a Spanish artist, finished

the mural-sized painting "Guernica" in 1937. Using the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War

bombing of the town of Guernica as its subject, the artwork makes a strong message against

war. The artwork is defined by its stark color scheme, warped shapes, and powerful

emotional resonance.

Analysis

Historical Context:

Between 1936 and 1939, the Republicans—who backed a democratic government—and the

Nationalists—led by General Francisco Franco—engaged in a bloody civil war in Spain. The

world was stunned by the terrible bombardment of Guernica, a town in the Basque Country,

carried out by German and Italian air forces supporting Franco. The bombing news had a

profound effect on Picasso, who was residing in Paris at the time, and he chose to paint

"Guernica" in reaction to the horror.

Artist's Background:

Pablo Picasso was a major figure in the evolution of contemporary art and one of the most

important artists of the twentieth century. Born in Spain in 1881, Picasso resided in France

for a significant portion of his life. The Blue Period, the Rose Period, and Cubism were all

distinct periods in his artistic career. Picasso's anti-fascist views and experiences during the

Spanish Civil War substantially impacted his subsequent works, culminating in the

construction of "Guernica."

Narrative of the Art:

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The painting "Guernica" is a depiction of the agony that was inflicted upon innocent

populations during times of conflict that is both vivid and agonizing. The painting depicts

individuals that are twisted and in agony, as well as animals that are in distress and

structures that have been broken. Increasing the emotional intensity of the scene is

accomplished through the utilization of black, white, and gray tones. There is a major focus

on a mother who is crying while holding a child who has passed away, which is a global

symbol of the horror that is war. As a reflection of the confusion that is brought about by

conflict, the composition is broken and disjointed, which contributes to the chaotic and

nightmare-like atmosphere.

Impact on Society:

The film "Guernica" had an instantly noticeable and significant effect on society. The picture,

which was initially presented at the Spanish Pavilion of the 1937 International Exposition in

Paris, became a symbol of anti-fascist and anti-war sentiment as it attracted the attention of

people all over the world. By traveling to a number of different places, the artwork succeeded

in bringing attention to the Spanish Civil War as well as the wider danger of fascism

throughout Europe. Over the course of the years that followed, "Guernica" became a focal

point for demonstrations against acts of violence and war.

Subsequent generations of artists and activists were inspired by the artwork, which had an

influence that reached beyond the immediate political setting in which it was created. As a

poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the artist's ability to act as a voice for those

who are oppressed and disadvantaged, it continues to be a compelling reminder.

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References

1. Díaz M.J. (red.), Picasso, tłum. Ł. Szulim, Warszawa 2015.

2. Penrose R., Picasso, Londyn 1958.

3. Centrum Kultury i Sztuki w Skierniewicach (2020)https://cekis.pl/relacje/historia-

jednego-obrazu-guernica-picassa/