La Reve (The Dream)

Years in the making, Myatt has utterly immersed himself in the life and mind of Picasso to interpret some of the most seminal works from the artist who redefined art as we know it.

Capturing his revolutionary spirit and masterful methods, Myatt has portrayed works from the distinct chapters of Picasso’s career, including his Blue, Rose, Cubist and Surrealist periods.

Each period is marked by significant stylistic and thematic shifts, creating a narrative that reflects the evolution of twentieth-century art. Myatt has devotedly sought to represent the works with the spirit Picasso would have originally intended, to honour the profound connection between Picasso’s life and work.

“There are just a few artists who are born with a level of skill that it takes others decades of hard work to achieve. Picasso was one of those. And when you can do anything in art, what do you do? You either turn out dazzling displays of technical virtuosity time and time again or challenge your own skills by seeking to redefine the very nature of art itself. That was what Picasso attempted and achieved.” – John Myatt

This artwork is based on "Picasso's - Le Rêve(The Dream), 1932". Created when Picasso was 50 years old, it features his 24-year-old mistress, Marie-Thérèse Walter. Legend has it that this vibrant work was completed in just one afternoon, on January 24, 1932. Showcasing Picasso's distinctive style, the painting embodies his fascination with distorted forms, featuring simplified outlines and bold colors reminiscent of early Fauvism.

Critics have often highlighted the erotic undertones of the piece, noting the suggestive elements within Walter's upturned face, which some interpret as a symbol of Picasso's own desires. This artwork is a striking exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.

You can read more about the collection here or find out more about John Myatt here.