Meaning: The quote "To draw you must close your eyes and sing" by Pablo Picasso reflects the profound connection between art and the inner self. Pablo Picasso, a renowned artist of the 20th century, was known for his innovative and unconventional approach to art. This quote captures the essence of his belief in the importance of tapping into one's inner creativity and intuition in the process of artistic creation.

Interpreting this quote requires an understanding of the relationship between drawing, the act of closing one's eyes, and the metaphor of singing. Closing one's eyes suggests a turning inward, a shutting out of external distractions in order to focus on the inner vision. This act of introspection is essential in the creative process, allowing the artist to connect with their innermost thoughts and emotions.

Additionally, the metaphor of singing adds another layer of meaning to the quote. Singing is often associated with expressing oneself freely and authentically. In the context of drawing, singing may represent the act of letting go of inhibitions and allowing one's inner creativity to flow uninhibited. It suggests that drawing is not merely a technical skill, but a form of personal expression and emotional release.

Picasso's quote also highlights the idea that art is not solely a visual process, but a multi-sensory experience. By invoking the act of singing, he suggests that drawing is not only about what the artist sees, but also about what they feel and express through their work. This aligns with Picasso's own artistic philosophy, which often emphasized the emotional and psychological dimensions of art-making.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the idea that creativity is not solely a product of the conscious mind, but also emerges from the depths of the subconscious. By encouraging artists to close their eyes, Picasso urges them to access the reservoir of images, memories, and emotions that reside within the unconscious mind. This aligns with the Surrealist movement, which sought to channel the subconscious in artistic creation.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as an invitation to approach drawing with a sense of openness, spontaneity, and intuition. It challenges the notion that art must be meticulously planned and executed, instead advocating for a more free-flowing and instinctive approach to creation. This aligns with Picasso's own experimental and boundary-pushing style, which often defied traditional artistic conventions.

Ultimately, "To draw you must close your eyes and sing" encapsulates Picasso's belief in the transformative and deeply personal nature of artistic expression. It serves as a reminder that art is not merely a skill or technique, but a profound means of self-discovery and emotional communication. Picasso's words continue to resonate with artists and art enthusiasts, inspiring them to embrace the inner journey of creativity and to approach art with a sense of wonder and introspection.

In conclusion, Pablo Picasso's quote "To draw you must close your eyes and sing" offers a powerful insight into the creative process and the deeply personal nature of artistic expression. It encourages artists to tap into their innermost thoughts and emotions, and to approach drawing as a form of authentic self-expression. By invoking the act of singing and the metaphor of closing one's eyes, Picasso underscores the multi-sensory and intuitive nature of art-making. His words continue to inspire artists to embrace the inner journey of creativity and to approach art with a sense of openness and introspection.