Sculptor, Model, Scupture, and a Goldfish (Sculpteur, modèle, sculpture et poisson rouge) 1933

This is one of Picasso’s etchings, and he made a lot of them. In this image, the thin lines feel so immediate and direct, as though drawn from life. They are almost like doodles, a process of thinking through images. Look at the way Picasso uses line to describe the forms. It’s so simple, so economical. The contours define the shapes, but there's also a lot of space and air. The texture of the paper comes through, adding a subtle layer of depth. My eye is drawn to the base of the sculpture, where these little vine-like details tumble down the plinth. It's like life is growing out of the sculpture. Picasso often used classical themes in his work, but he always put his own spin on them. There's something very Matisse-like in the playful lines and the focus on pleasure. It reminds us that art is a constant conversation, with artists borrowing and responding to each other’s ideas. The piece invites us to explore our own interpretations of this intimate scene.