Reappraising Picasso: Brooklyn Museum’s “Pablo-matic” Exhibition

The new exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum, titled “Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby,” has sparked controversy and mixed reviews. Despite the debate, the exhibition offers a valuable reappraisal of Pablo Picasso’s work 50 years after his death and is worth seeing. The exhibition consists of three components: a selection of around 50 Picasso paintings, prints, drawings, and sculptures from his early career to the late 1940s; works from the Brooklyn Museum’s collection of contemporary art by women; and a section inspired by Australian stand-up comic Hannah Gadsby’s 2018 stage performance, Nanette. Gadsby’s perspective on Picasso is that of a seducer, misogynist, and psycho-cad. While her views may not resonate with everyone, the exhibition provides a platform for different voices and opinions. The exhibition also includes quotes from artists and critics, shedding light on Picasso’s artistic genius and his ability to invent and reinvent. It delves into his mythological subjects, showcasing the depth and complexity of his work. Despite some flaws and omissions, such as the absence of Picasso’s late works, the exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of the artist’s legacy. Ultimately, Picasso’s ability to handle complexity is evident throughout the exhibition, and visitors are encouraged to form their own opinions about his work.