Pablo Picasso: 'I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.'

I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.

Pablo Picasso once said, "I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it." This quote encapsulates Picasso's relentless pursuit of growth, pushing beyond his comfort zone to explore new artistic territories. At its core, this quote emphasizes the indispensable role of experimentation and embracing challenges as an avenue for personal and creative development. It encourages individuals to constantly challenge themselves, pushing boundaries and learning from the process. However, looking beyond the surface, we can delve into a philosophical concept that adds depth and intrigue to Picasso's words.Enter the concept of "existentialism." In a broad sense, existentialism explores the subjective existence of individuals and the inherent meaninglessness of life, placing emphasis on personal responsibility and freedom of choice. Picasso's quote aligns with this philosophy in a rather unexpected way, intertwining the concepts of self-discovery and personal growth with existentialist principles.So, how does the idea of existentialism relate to Picasso's quote? Well, if we view life as inherently meaningless, then it becomes our responsibility to create our own purpose. Picasso embodies this existentialist perspective by actively engaging in endeavors that he cannot do. By challenging himself with the unknown, Picasso confronts the void of meaninglessness and fills it with the act of creation and learning. In this way, Picasso's quote embodies the essence of existentialism, highlighting the importance of taking control of our own destinies and determining our own purpose in life.When Picasso states that he does what he cannot do in order to learn, he exemplifies the essence of existentialist principles. By stepping into the unknown, Picasso actively assumes responsibility for his own growth and development. He recognizes that through this process of venturing outside his comfort zone, he not only gains new skills but also expands his perspective and understanding of the world. Picasso's quote, when seen through an existentialist lens, showcases the profound connection between personal growth and the pursuit of purpose and meaning.Furthermore, Picasso's insatiable desire to explore uncharted territories highlights that there is no final endpoint in the pursuit of learning. It is a continuous journey, a never-ending cycle of growth. Picasso's quote challenges us to abandon the fear of failure and embrace the unfamiliar, acknowledging that it is through the struggle and the process that we truly learn and evolve.In essence, Picasso's quote not only encourages us to step outside our comfort zones but also aligns with the existentialist idea that it is up to us to create our own purpose and meaning in life. By actively engaging in that which we cannot do, we embrace the essence of existentialism, taking control of our destinies and constantly finding new ways to learn, grow, and actualize our potential.So, the next time you find yourself hesitating to embark on something unfamiliar or challenging, remember Picasso's words. Embrace the unknown, dare to do what you believe you cannot do, and through taking such leaps, you may just find yourself on a path of constant self-discovery and personal growth. After all, it is in stepping outside our comfort zones that we truly learn how to do the things we never thought possible.