Meaning: The quote "My arse contemplates those who talk behind my back" by Francis Picabia is a provocative and humorous statement that reflects the artist's rebellious and irreverent attitude towards societal norms and expectations. Born in 1879, Picabia was a French avant-garde artist known for his diverse body of work that spanned various styles, including Impressionism, Cubism, Dadaism, and Surrealism. He was a key figure in the development of modern art and was known for his witty and subversive approach to both art and life.

Picabia's quote can be interpreted in multiple ways, reflecting his complex and multifaceted artistic persona. On the surface, the quote can be seen as a bold declaration of indifference towards gossip and criticism. By using the term "my arse" instead of a more polite or refined body part, Picabia injects a sense of irreverence and defiance into the statement. It suggests that he is unbothered by the opinions of others, choosing instead to humorously dismiss them with a gesture of disregard.

Furthermore, the quote can be read as a commentary on the nature of human behavior and interpersonal relationships. In a society where gossip and backbiting are prevalent, Picabia's statement can be seen as a satirical reflection of the pettiness and shallowness of such behavior. By attributing the act of contemplation to his "arse," Picabia subverts the traditional association of thought and contemplation with the mind, instead suggesting that even the most base and vulgar part of the body is capable of reflecting on the actions of others.

In a broader context, the quote can also be viewed as a reflection of Picabia's overall approach to art and life. Throughout his career, Picabia was known for his unconventional and often controversial artistic choices. He frequently challenged the established norms of the art world and embraced a sense of playfulness and irreverence in his work. This quote can be seen as a distillation of his overall ethos, encapsulating his refusal to conform to societal expectations and his embrace of the absurd and the unconventional.

Interestingly, Picabia's quote also resonates with the broader themes of Dadaism, a movement with which he was closely associated. Dadaism was characterized by its rejection of traditional aesthetic and cultural values, embracing instead a spirit of irrationality, nonsense, and rebellion. Picabia's quote aligns with the Dadaist ethos by subverting conventional ideas about propriety and decorum, and by embracing a sense of absurdity and defiance.

In conclusion, Francis Picabia's quote "My arse contemplates those who talk behind my back" is a thought-provoking and multifaceted statement that reflects the artist's irreverent and defiant approach to art and life. Through its combination of humor, defiance, and social commentary, the quote encapsulates Picabia's rebellious spirit and his refusal to conform to societal expectations. It serves as a testament to his enduring influence on the development of modern art and his willingness to challenge established norms and conventions.