Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Picasso, Dali and Surrealism Art - Authentic Spanish Oil Paintings Since the 19th Century" at Shanxi Museum showcases 75 classic works from 23 Spanish artists, including Picasso and Dali, highlighting the evolution of Spanish art from tradition to modernity [1][4]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition features various art forms such as sculpture, oil painting, ceramics, and mixed media, providing a unique artistic experience for visitors [1]. - It is organized into four thematic sections: "Momentary Impressions," "Inspiration of Beauty," "Form and Shape," and "Dream and Reality," systematically presenting the evolution of Spanish art and its spirit [1][4]. - The exhibition will run until October 8, 2025, and includes a series of online and offline educational activities aimed at promoting Spanish art and cultural exchange [4]. Group 2: Featured Works - Picasso's oil painting "Woman with Blue Eyes" is a key highlight, showcasing his lover Marie-Thérèse's delicate beauty and employing Impressionist techniques [2]. - Another significant piece is Picasso's ceramic work "Vase of Jamb," which reflects his unique style developed during his later exploration of ceramic art [2][3]. - Dali's work "Giraffe Venus," inspired by the ancient Greek sculpture "Venus de Milo," combines elements of elegance and surrealism, symbolizing love and beauty [4].

Core Perspective - Pablo Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," created in 1907, is a landmark work in 20th-century modern art, marking the beginning of Cubism and reflecting a significant shift in artistic exploration and cultural context [1][4]. Artistic Innovation - The painting features five nude women whose bodies are deconstructed into multiple geometric planes, challenging traditional representations of the human form [2][4]. - Picasso's use of fragmented geometric shapes to reconstruct figures eliminates classical aesthetics of harmony and beauty, replacing them with a raw, sharp visual impact [2][4]. Spatial and Color Treatment - Picasso abandons single-point perspective, juxtaposing visual elements from different angles on the same plane, creating a "flattened space" that dissolves traditional depth perception [3][4]. - The color palette primarily consists of blue, ochre, and gray, establishing a cold, oppressive atmosphere, with brushwork that emphasizes form over natural light [3][4]. Historical Context and Impact - Initially, "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" was not publicly exhibited until 1916, and it faced mixed reactions, with conservative critics viewing it as a disaster for rejecting the realistic traditions established since the Renaissance [4][6]. - The work is considered the beginning of Cubism, influencing artists like Henri Matisse and Georges Braque, and paving the way for movements such as Futurism and Abstract Expressionism [6][7]. Cultural Reflection - Picasso's art reflects a continuous inquiry into the essence of art, emphasizing that it is not merely imitation of nature but exists parallel to it, incorporating diverse cultural elements and addressing social issues [5][6]. - "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" serves as a critical text for understanding the transition from traditional to modern art, symbolizing a rebellion against standardized visual norms in the context of contemporary digital technology [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of art appreciation in the context of social media, questioning whether audiences can truly engage with art or are merely using it as a backdrop for social media posts [1][3]. Group 1: Art Engagement - Many visitors to art exhibitions, such as the "Picasso: Dialogue with Asia" at M+ Museum, prioritize taking photos over genuinely appreciating the artwork [1][3]. - The trend of using art as a social media backdrop diminishes the intrinsic value of the art itself, as people focus more on sharing their experiences rather than understanding the art [3][4]. Group 2: Art Education and Understanding - The article highlights the need for improved art education, as many art buyers view artworks merely as investment tools without comprehending their deeper meanings [3]. - Understanding modern art, such as Picasso's works, requires knowledge of artistic movements like Cubism, which is often lacking among the general public [3][4]. Group 3: Immersive Experience - A successful exhibition can transport audiences into the artist's world, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of their expressions and thoughts [4]. - The importance of being present and immersing oneself in the artwork is emphasized, suggesting that true appreciation comes from experiencing art without distractions like smartphones [4].

Core Insights - The article discusses the transformative impact of Paul Cézanne and Pierre-Auguste Renoir on modern art, highlighting their unique contributions to the Impressionist movement and their influence on subsequent art movements like Cubism and Fauvism [1][12]. Historical Context: Breakthrough of Tradition and Call for Modernity - European painting since the Renaissance emphasized imitation of nature, focusing on perspective, chiaroscuro, and detailed realism, which eventually became formulaic and lifeless [3]. - The invention of photography in the mid-19th century diminished the significance of pure representation, prompting artists to explore what painting should express and how [3]. Cézanne: The Foundation of Structure, Order, and Modern Vision - Cézanne's artistic journey was characterized by a continuous inquiry into the essence of painting, distancing himself from the Impressionist focus on light [4]. - His painting language revolved around constructing forms through color, using large color blocks to define shapes and spatial depth, as seen in his series "Mont Sainte-Victoire" [5][6]. Revolution of Color and Structure - Cézanne's approach to light and shadow broke traditional chiaroscuro techniques, allowing for greater abstraction and construction in painting [5]. - His famous quote, "All forms can be represented by the cylinder, the sphere, and the cone," reflects his deep understanding of structure, laying the groundwork for later developments in Cubism [5][7]. Impact on Modern Art - Cézanne's explorations shifted painting from mere representation to analysis and construction, emphasizing form, structure, and subjective expression [7][12]. - His innovations in light and shadow liberated painting from the constraints of realism, making it a vessel for modern spirit and perception [7]. Renoir: A Celebration of Life in Light and Shadow - In contrast to Cézanne's rational approach, Renoir's work is characterized by lyrical, warm, and humanistic depictions of life, capturing the vibrancy of moments [8][9]. - His vibrant use of color and fluid brushwork created scenes filled with sunlight and movement, as exemplified in "Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette" [9]. Capturing Moments of Light and Color - Renoir's emphasis on "colored shadows" transformed shadows into lively spaces filled with hues, influencing later artists in their use of color and light [9][10]. - His delicate portrayal of figures radiated happiness and vitality, embodying the optimistic spirit of late 19th-century French society [10]. Inspiration for Modern Art - Renoir's techniques in capturing light and shadow inspired numerous artists, allowing for a departure from traditional forms and narratives towards expressing feelings and attitudes through color and brushwork [11][12]. - His work opened up vast exploration opportunities for 20th-century modern art, emphasizing emotional expression over strict representation [11]. The Revolution of Light and Shadow: A Rebirth of Artistic Language - The revolutionary interpretations of light and shadow by Cézanne and Renoir fundamentally altered the essence of artistic language, making them core elements in constructing images and expressing emotions [12][13]. - Their contributions shifted painting from external reality representation to subjective perception and internal structure expression, paving the way for modern art's infinite possibilities [13][14]. Continuation and Development in Later Art - Cézanne's structural analysis gave rise to modern movements like Cubism and Abstract Art, while Renoir's sensitivity to color inspired Fauvism and Expressionism [14]. - Their pioneering efforts in artistic language allowed 20th-century artists to explore personal, social, and cosmic relationships beyond mere representation [14].