Picasso Linocuts at the British Museum

The British museum recently acquired sets of proofs of two late linocuts by Picasso - "Still life under the lamp" and "Jacqueline reading". They are currently on display in room 90, where all the good stuff goes.

Jacqueline... is a two block print. Each is shown printed separately. The more complex of the two, developing tones like a crude engraving to show the modelling of the face, is shown in two states. The simpler one, showing outlines you might expect from a linocut, is shown in one state only. Finally, the two are printed together to form the finished print.

Still life... is a multi-coloured print. A proof has been taken from every stage of printing so that every decision about carving and the effect each colour had is clear and easy to trace. Again, the finished print is displayed alongside. Personally, I don't like it much but I respect it and I have learned from it.

This is a rare opportunity to see the development of important pieces by a giant of recent art. There are proper insights into Picasso's creative process waiting to be gleaned. Its an interesting show for anyone into 20th century art in general or Picasso in particular, a very interesting show for anyone who makes art and an absolute must-see for any block printers and lino cutters out there.

The show is free and runs until 6 May.