Maria Blanchard

Revisiting the work of an overlooked female Spanish painter who was both a friend and contemporary of Picasso and Gris

This catalog offers a chronological journey through the different stages in the artistic life of the Spanish painter María Blanchard (1881–1932), who developed a unique style of Cubism in her short career. After moving to Paris in 1916, she met many Cubist artists and became close friends with Juan Gris. Her work evolved into a more figurative and traditional style over the years; her paintings became harsh, with bright clashing colors and melancholic themes. The vast body of work she left behind, including maternity scenes and domestic scenes, reflects a heartfelt concern for human vulnerability. This aspect is reinforced by a meticulous technical mastery and a keen interest in the history of European painting. Because her work was largely overlooked during her lifetime, this monograph aims to highlight the symbolic richness and innovative character inherent in her work.