Picasso: Heroes & Influences of Ralph STEADman
Picasso: Heroes & Influences of Ralph Steadman
As part of Ralph STEADman: INKling, we’re thrilled to feature two of Picasso’s etchings: ‘Le Chardonneret‘ (The Goldfinch, 1942-43) on loan from Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, and ‘Drinking Minotaur and Reclining Woman‘ (1933) from The Courtauld, London (Samuel Courtauld Trust).
Most of us have people we admire and who inspire us, and Ralph Steadman is no different.
Among his most influential heroes are artists like George Grosz, Marcel Duchamp, and Pablo Picasso, each shaping Steadman’s career in significant ways. Picasso, in particular, left a deep mark on Steadman’s artistic journey.
Steadman’s admiration for the artist began in the 1950s, during his early days as an art student. From that time on, Picasso’s daring approach to art and his fearless experimentation became a constant source of inspiration. Steadman noted, “He changed the way we perceive art and what we consider art to be. His view of the world was so unique.”
Picasso’s influence on Steadman’s work can be viewed throughout the exhibition. Alongside the two Picasso etchings on loan, a curated collection of 15 pieces from Steadman’s suite of work is presented, including highlights from a personal project inspired by Picasso’s prolific ‘The 347 Suite’. Created in 1988, driven by Picasso’s relentless productivity, Steadman set a remarkable goal: to create 547 pieces in just five months, an effort that demonstrated his dedication to both craft and creativity.
For Steadman, including Picasso’s work in INKling felt essential. As he reflected, “Everyone should have a hero who pushes them to reach further and try new things.”
Recently, we spoke with Steadman about how Picasso has influenced his art over the years.
If you could only take one Picasso artwork with you on a desert island, which one would you choose (and why)?
Probably ‘Guernica‘. It is so full of incident and it would be a lot to look at. The story behind it, what inspired it, is so tragic. It was painted in response to the merciless bombing of the Basque town of Guernica in 1937 by the Nazis and the Fascists in the Spanish Civil War. It is an amazing anti-war memorial.
Read more about Picasso’s ‘Guernica’.
Is there a piece of Picasso artwork that you wish you had created?
I did my version of ‘Guernica’ called ‘Gonzo Guernica‘ which is on display in the INKling exhibition. I have created my own suite of artworks inspired by Picasso’s own practice. There is also a child picture of him, a self-portrait which is really beautiful.
He was so prolific I am inspired by his constant creation of work. He always had something new to say in his work.
Are there any specific examples of your work where Picasso’s influence can be seen?
You can see in my drawing of Animal Farm, that Clover the Horse has the look of a Picasso. In the way, I have positioned the eyes.
His exploration of art and continual evolution is something I have always strived for.
Ralph STEADman: INKling is only available for a limited time from 21 September to 17 November 2024, and is included in your entry ticket to The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
Pablo Picasso [1881 – 1973), Le Chardonneret (The Goldfinch) (from Buffon’s ‘Histories Naturelles’) (Bloch 348), 1941/42, Etching on paper, Presented by Miss B Quihampton (2003) © Succession Picasso/DACS, London 2024
Pablo Picasso (1881-1973), Drinking minotaur and reclining woman, 1933, etching. The Courtauld, London (Samuel Courtauld Trust) © Succession Picasso/DACS, London 2023
