20 Great Words of Wisdom and Advice from Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, was not only a master of painting and sculpture but also a profound thinker whose ideas extended far beyond the canvas. His thoughts on creativity, life, and perseverance continue to inspire millions. Here are 20 of Picasso’s most powerful words of wisdom and advice:

1. “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”

• Creativity doesn’t strike out of nowhere. Picasso emphasized the importance of discipline and dedication to unleash inspiration.

2. “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

• Picasso believed that creativity is inherent in all of us, but societal pressures and conventions often suppress it as we age.

3. “Action is the foundational key to all success.”

• Success isn’t a matter of luck or waiting. It requires deliberate and consistent effort.

4. “Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth.”

• Through art, Picasso revealed deeper truths about humanity, emotions, and existence.

5. “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.”

• Mastery of foundational skills allows for bold innovation and creativity.

6. “Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.”

• Picasso valued urgency and taking action without procrastination.

7. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”

• Sharing your talents and making a difference in others’ lives was central to Picasso’s philosophy.

8. “It takes a long time to become young.”

• Picasso believed in retaining a sense of wonder and curiosity, regardless of age.

9. “Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.”

• Art reflects the emotional landscape of its creator, and color plays a significant role in expression.

10. “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

• Picasso saw art as a healing and rejuvenating force for the human spirit.

11. “Good artists copy; great artists steal.”

• Innovation often comes from borrowing ideas and making them uniquely yours.

12. “Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.”

• For Picasso, his art was a personal narrative, reflecting his thoughts, experiences, and emotions.

13. “To draw, you must close your eyes and sing.”

• Creativity requires intuition and emotional engagement, not just technical skill.

14. “The chief enemy of creativity is good sense.”

• Picasso warned against overthinking or playing it safe, which stifles bold artistic endeavors.

15. “Give me a museum, and I’ll fill it.”

• Confidence in one’s ability is crucial for achieving greatness.

16. “Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not.”

• Picasso challenged conventional thinking and explored new possibilities.

17. “You don’t make art; you find it.”

• Creativity is about uncovering and bringing forth what already exists in the world or within oneself.

18. “There are painters who transform the sun into a yellow spot, but there are others who, with the help of their art and intelligence, transform a yellow spot into the sun.”

• Perspective and imagination are what set great artists apart.

19. “Success is dangerous. One begins to copy oneself, and copying oneself is more dangerous than copying others.”

• Picasso encouraged artists to continually evolve and avoid complacency.

20. “Everything you can imagine is real.”

• Imagination has the power to transcend reality and create new possibilities.

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