Chicago's Art History: The Impact Of Picasso's 1939 Solo Show

Chloe Fitzgerald

6 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

4.4

Share

The Exhibition Itself: Scope and Significance

The 1939 Picasso exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago was a landmark event, showcasing a comprehensive collection of the artist's work. This wasn't a small showing; it was a major undertaking, presenting a diverse range of Picasso's paintings, sculptures, and drawings spanning various periods of his prolific career. The Picasso Chicago Exhibition, as it became known, featured approximately 100 pieces, providing a rich survey of his artistic evolution and stylistic explorations.

• Number of artworks exhibited: Approximately 100 paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
• Key pieces showcased: While a complete list is extensive, notable works included several examples of his Cubist phase, his Surrealist period pieces, and his powerful depictions of women, providing a compelling overview of his artistic journey. Specific titles and descriptions would require further research into the Art Institute's archives from that period.
• Contemporary critical reviews and public response: While detailed records of public reaction might be challenging to reconstruct fully, the exhibition undoubtedly generated significant buzz within the Chicago art community and beyond. It's safe to say that the exhibition's scale and the renown of the artist would have ensured a strong, if not controversial, reception, reflecting the varied responses to modern art at the time.
• The exhibition's curatorial approach and context: The curatorial choices reflected the then-contemporary understanding and appreciation of Picasso's work. The selection, and the way it was presented, likely aimed at educating a broader audience about modern art while acknowledging the revolutionary nature of Picasso's contribution to the field.

Impact on Chicago's Art Scene

The 1939 Picasso exhibition dramatically altered the trajectory of Chicago's art scene. Prior to the exhibition, while Chicago had a thriving artistic community, exposure to the leading edge of European Modern Art was perhaps less readily available. The sheer scale and impact of the Picasso Chicago Exhibition proved a catalyst, boosting the city’s appreciation for Modern art considerably.

• Increased interest in modern art among Chicagoans: The exhibition brought international recognition to Chicago's art world, attracting considerable attention to the Art Institute and stimulating a greater public interest in modern and contemporary art.
• Impact on local artists and their styles: Exposure to Picasso's work undoubtedly influenced Chicago's local artists, potentially introducing new stylistic approaches and techniques that would shape their own artistic explorations. Some artists may have been inspired to experiment with Cubism, Surrealism, or other styles prominent in Picasso’s oeuvre.
• Development of new art galleries or studios: While direct causation is difficult to prove, it is plausible that the increased interest in modern art spurred the development of new art spaces, fostering a more vibrant and dynamic artistic community.
• Changes in art education and curatorial practices in Chicago: The exhibition likely spurred changes in the educational approach to art, expanding the range of styles and techniques taught and influencing curatorial practices within the city's institutions.

The Exhibition in Historical Context

1939 was a year steeped in global tension, on the brink of World War II. The looming conflict cast a long shadow over the exhibition and its reception. The exhibition took place at a moment when European artists, fleeing the escalating political turmoil in Europe, began to find refuge in the United States.

• The global political situation in 1939 and its relevance: The exhibition arguably provided a respite from the escalating anxieties of the time, offering an opportunity to engage with beauty and artistic expression amidst growing uncertainty.
• The role of the Art Institute of Chicago as a major art institution: The Art Institute's decision to host such a significant exhibition cemented its position as a leading institution for modern art in America.
• The exhibition's contribution to the understanding of Picasso's artistic development: The broad scope of the exhibition allowed viewers to trace Picasso’s development through his different periods, offering a more complete understanding of his artistic trajectory.
• Comparison with other significant exhibitions of the era: The exhibition's significance can be measured by its impact compared to other exhibitions of similar scale and importance happening in other major American cities during that period.

Lasting Legacy: Picasso's Enduring Influence on Chicago

The legacy of Picasso's 1939 exhibition continues to resonate in Chicago today. His influence can be seen in the city's artistic landscape, the collections of its museums, and the work of contemporary artists. The Art Institute Chicago Collection continues to feature Picasso’s work, reminding visitors of the artist's enduring impact on the city's cultural identity.

• The presence of Picasso's works in Chicago museums today: The Art Institute maintains a significant collection of Picasso's works, many of which likely served as a foundation to their holdings post the 1939 exhibition.
• Ongoing influence on contemporary Chicago artists: While tracing a direct line of influence is challenging, the stylistic currents introduced by Picasso's work have undoubtedly found their way into the evolution of Chicago's art scene.
• The exhibition's place in Chicago art history narratives: The 1939 exhibition holds a prominent place in the narratives of Chicago art history, acting as a benchmark event marking a significant shift in artistic sensibilities.
• The continuing legacy of the Art Institute of Chicago as a leader in modern art: The exhibition played a vital role in establishing the Art Institute's reputation as a leading institution for showcasing modern and contemporary art.

Conclusion

Picasso's 1939 solo exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago was more than just an art show; it was a transformative moment that profoundly shaped Chicago's art history. The exhibition's impact, felt in the city's artistic community, its educational institutions, and its leading museums, continues to resonate today. By bringing Picasso's revolutionary work to Chicago, the Art Institute solidified its position at the forefront of the American art world and left an enduring legacy that shapes the city's artistic landscape even now. Learn more about the enduring impact of Picasso's 1939 exhibition on Chicago's art scene by visiting the Art Institute and exploring their collection. Discover the rich history of Picasso in Chicago and witness the continuing legacy of this pivotal moment.