Join us for an exclusive member cocktail inspired by Picasso’s Spanish roots, an exhibition preview, and a lecture and book signing by curator and art historian, Richard P. Townsend.
In his talk, Townsend will explore Picasso’s dialogue with Renaissance masterpieces, examining how the artist both honored and challenged the traditions of the Old Masters. Pablo Picasso’s late linocuts featured in Picasso and the Progressive Proof reveal one of the most significant themes of his entire career. Early trained as an academic artist, Picasso strove his entire life to enter the ranks of the great artists of the past. Titian, Cranach and Goya are the "grands maitres" he converses with in the exhibition. Underscoring this dialogue will be Townsend's exciting new research on the previously unknown and unpublished drawings of Picasso's lover and leading Surrealist artist in her own right, Dora Maar. Townsend's lecture will reveal the inexorable pull of the Old Masters on two of the most unforgettable icons of Modern art.
The exhibition is organized by Townsend Art Advisory LLC.
June 17, June 24, & July 1, 2025
UL Art History Professor Allison Leigh presents a 3-part lecture series sharing her cutting-edge research on Picasso's complex relationships with women from her forthcoming book. This scholarly series follows the format of the prestigious Mellon Lectures at the National Gallery of Art in D.C., where a single scholar presents in-depth, innovative research on a focused topic over multiple sessions, bringing cutting-edge art historical perspectives to a wider audience.
A tour of the exhibition followed by a printmaking workshop at Marais Press Studio led by UL Printmaking Professor Brian Kelly. Participants will learn the same linocut techniques Picasso employed, gaining firsthand appreciation for his technical innovations and creative process.
4 p.m. start at Hilliard, transportation to be provided by Geaux Out to Fletcher Hall for the Workshop 5-8 p.m.
Advanced registration required. $50 members / $65 non-members