Picasso. Figures At The Frist Art Museum
What was the one class, high school or college, that shaped you as a person?
For me, that class was art history.
I took my first art history class during my senior year of high school. It was one of those pesky elective classes that I decided to put off until the absolute last minute. Little did I know, that class would uncover my passion for learning about art and architecture across the world. It forced me to open my eyes to my surroundings and learn about the history and the story behind each piece of work.
As we were learning about the post-Impressionism movement, I fell in love with George Seurat and his work “A Sunday Afternoon on the island of La Grande Jatte.” The Pointillism style fascinated me. I could not imagine an artist taking the time to mix tiny dots of colors to create this incredible illusion on canvas.
My love of art history continued as I entered Belmont University. I remember being one of the only freshman business majors in a room filled with creatives. I was the poster child for not fitting in, but that didn’t stop me. I took every art history class Belmont offered, all two of them at the time.
Many years passed, but I eventually made it to the Art Institute of Chicago, where I stood in front of my favorite Seurat piece completely awestruck. Looking back, I could have stared at it for hours. It was magnificent.
Even if you aren’t an art history enthusiast like myself, I encourage each of you to expand your mind and take a chance at your local art museum. You never know what treasures are inside. I am very grateful that the Frist Art Museum is hosting the Picasso. Figures exhibition. Don’t miss your chance to view these extraordinary works of art and gain an understanding of Picasso’s abstract approach to the human body.
Whether you have secured your tickets or are simply curious about the exhibit, I’ve got all the details below.
I’m getting my calendar. What are the dates of the exhibition?
The exhibition, which is on loan from Musée national Picasso-Paris, will be at the Frist Art Museum from February 5- May 2, 2021.
Where does the exhibit go next?
If you miss it while it’s at the Frist, you better buy a plane ticket and head to Paris. Picasso. Figures is making its sole US appearance at the Frist Art Museum. It’s such a special treat for Music City.
Tell me a little bit about the exhibit.
Picasso. Figures takes an in-depth look at Pablo Picasso’s fascination with the human body as a way to explore and express a variety of emotions. Comprised of paintings, works on paper, and sculptures on loan from the Musée national Picasso-Paris, guests will see the evolution and ranges of his stylistic approach and why Picasso is considered one of the great groundbreakers in twentieth-century art.
I haven’t had my COVID-19 vaccination. What precautions are in place?
The Frist Art Museum has done a wonderful job ensuring that guests are safely complying with COVID-19 restrictions. Guests are required to purchase advanced timed entry tickets for the exhibit. Upon arrival, temperatures are checked, and masks are required. Once you are inside the exhibit, you may view it at your own pace. Tickets were made available for purchase on January 18, and given the limited nature of the exhibit, many weekend dates have already sold out. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please click HERE.
How long does it take to get through the exhibit?
I know, it’s a subjective question and depends on the collection of art and how well versed someone is in the subject matter. I spent around two hours going through the exhibit, reading the history, and learning as much as I could about each piece. Due to COVID-19, I was also trying to be strategic and avoid pieces that had several people standing around at once. I encourage you to take your time and see which pieces speak to you.
Anything else I need to know before I go?
Take a deep breath and relax. You aren’t expected to go into the exhibit knowing everything about Picasso. I spent close to two hours wandering throughout the exhibit and learning the history behind each piece.
If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask. Many of the pieces have exhibit labels with QR codes. Make sure you bring your headphones so you can listen to the audio explanation. If you still have questions, there are docents strategically placed throughout who are more than happy to assist.
Wear comfortable shoes! As I write this, I know I am one that needs reminding of this more than anyone. Make sure that you dress comfortably. Leave your matching loungewear at home along with the seven inch Louboutins. Again, you will be spending 1-2 hours on your feet, so proper footwear is a must.
Children enter at your own risk. While I saw several families wandering throughout the museum pushing strollers and holding the hands of their little ones, I also heard some screaming and whining with, of course, the most popular statement from the kids, “ are we almost finished?” I recommend planning accordingly, so it’s not an overwhelming experience for both you and your child.
Coat check, please! One day it’s snowing, and the next day it 60 degrees and sunny. Welcome to Nashville weather. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there’s no longer a full-service coat check, but there are rolling racks outside the gallery where you can hang your coat and umbrella, if necessary.
Watch your step and don’t touch! Perhaps the two most important things to keep in mind when visiting a museum. There are discreetly marked lines on the floor to ensure people keep their distance. Make sure you keep an eye out because the last thing you want is a visit from museum security!
I hope that you have the opportunity to visit Picasso.Figures and enjoy it as much as I did. I’m already plotting my return before the exhibition closes in May. Below are a few of my favorite Picasso works from the exhibit. If you go, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Until Next Time!
