Pablo Picasso, the most important Spanish artist of the 20th century, is the pride of Malaga. He was born in this city in the south of Spain. Although he only lived here for the first 10 years of his life, the city has dedicated 2 museums to the artist. In addition to his birth home, the city also boasts the relatively new Museo Picasso Málaga, which was has been housed in a magnificent palace since 2003. Together, both venues give an excellent overview of Picasso’s life and work.
The priorities of this young multi-talented genius were clear at an early age. According to his mother, María Picasso y López, ‘pencil’ was little Pablo’s first word. His father, José Ruiz y Blasco, was an art teacher and painter. When his 13-year-old son finished one of his sketches revealing a talent greater than his own, the father swore to never pick up a paint brush again. Later on, his talent would branch out into sculptures, poetry, graphic design, jewellery and ceramics. It brought Picasso unparalleled fame and wealth.