3. Pablo Picasso
Pablo Picasso, born in 1881, was a Spanish painter and sculptor who co-founded the Cubist movement, revolutionizing modern art. His works, such as ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,’ are celebrated for their innovative approach. However, Picasso’s personal life was marked by cruel and manipulative behavior toward women. He often objectified his partners, viewing them as either ‘goddesses’ or ‘doormats.’ His granddaughter, Marina Picasso, described his treatment of women as: ‘He submitted them to his animal sexuality, tamed them, bewitched them, ingested them, and crushed them onto his canvas. After he had spent many nights extracting their essence, once they were bled dry, he would dispose of them.’ This pattern of emotional abuse and manipulation often overshadowed his artistic achievements. For instance, his relationship with Dora Maar, whom he depicted as the ‘Weeping Woman,’ was abusive, leading to her psychological breakdown. Picasso’s behavior has led to ongoing debates about the separation of an artist’s work from their personal conduct. (theguardian.com)
