Picasso arrived in Paris in 1900 with friend Carlos Casagemas. He took over Isidre Nonell's studio in Montmartre at age 19. Casagemas' suicide in 1901 triggered Picasso's dark period. He created blue-toned paintings depicting melancholy. First exhibition at Ambroise Vollard gallery in 1901
Canvas is recommended for beginners, primed canvas preferred. Art paper at least 300 lb. weight works well but absorbs paint
Romanticism emerged in late 18th century as reaction to Classicism. Movement emphasized emotion, individualism and glorification of nature. Artists stressed imagination, spontaneity and personal expression
Neoclassicism emerged in 1760s as reaction to Rococo style. Movement based on ancient Greek and Roman art, emphasizing harmony and clarity. Archaeological discoveries at Herculaneum and Pompeii gave movement momentum. Johann Joachim Winckelmann advocated imitating Greek art for universal beauty
Born in 1819 in Ornans, France, Courbet studied at Steuben and Hesse's studio. His first major success came with "After Dinner at Ornans" in 1849. He rejected academic conventions and Romanticism in his art
Born in Limoges in 1841, moved to Paris in 1844. Initially trained as a porcelain factory apprentice. Studied under Charles Gleyre in Paris from 1862. First gained recognition at Salon in 1868 with Lise with a Parasol