Pablo Picasso: 'There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterward you can remove all traces of reality.'

There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterward you can remove all traces of reality.

Pablo Picasso's quote, "There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterward you can remove all traces of reality," encapsulates a fundamental principle of art-making. The statement suggests that even the most abstract or non-representational artworks have roots in reality, whether it be an initial idea, emotion, or visual reference. Picasso implies that artists begin with something tangible or concrete before transforming it into a more abstract form. This concept highlights the interconnectedness between reality and abstraction in art, challenging the notion of complete detachment from the physical world in creative expression.To delve deeper into the significance of Picasso's statement, one might consider the idea of duality in art – the coexistence of opposing elements such as reality and abstraction. This duality reflects a broader philosophical concept: the interplay between the known and the unknown, the visible and the invisible. Just as Picasso suggests that art always begins with something real, this philosophical concept posits that the familiar and the unfamiliar are intricately linked. In the realm of creativity, this interplay allows artists to navigate between the tangible and intangible, drawing inspiration from the physical world while transcending its limitations through abstraction.By juxtaposing Picasso's views on art with the philosophical concept of duality, we can explore the dynamic tension between representation and abstraction, between what is seen and what is imagined. The process of starting with something concrete and then stripping away its realistic elements parallels the philosophical journey of discovering hidden truths beneath surface appearances. Both endeavors require a willingness to challenge preconceived notions, to embrace ambiguity, and to venture into the realm of the unknown.In conclusion, Picasso's quote serves as a springboard for contemplating the intricate relationship between reality and abstraction in art. By acknowledging the foundational connection to the physical world while also embracing the transformative power of abstraction, artists can tap into a rich source of creativity and meaning. Just as the philosophical concept of duality challenges us to explore the boundaries between what is visible and invisible, Picasso's words remind us that art, at its core, is a dynamic interplay between the familiar and the unknown, the concrete and the abstract.