This quote by Pablo Picasso suggests that painting is not a passive or static process, but rather a dynamic and transformative act. It is not just about recreating or representing reality as it is, but about breaking it apart and reassembling it in new ways. Picasso sees painting as a way to dissect reality, to see it from different angles, and to reveal its multiple layers and dimensions. Each stroke of the brush is an act of exploration and discovery, a step towards a deeper understanding of the world.

The “splitting apart” of reality is a reference to the Cubist style of painting that Picasso co-founded. This style breaks down objects into geometric shapes, presenting multiple viewpoints of the same subject simultaneously. It challenges the traditional one-point perspective in art, suggesting that reality is not fixed or singular, but fragmented and multifaceted.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see that Picasso’s approach to painting is very much in tune with the complexity and diversity of our contemporary society. Just like a Cubist painting, our reality is composed of multiple perspectives, voices, and narratives. It is not a monolithic or homogenous entity, but a rich tapestry of different experiences and viewpoints. This idea encourages us to approach our world with an open mind, to embrace diversity, and to seek understanding through dialogue and empathy.

In terms of personal development, Picasso’s quote can be seen as a call for creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking. It encourages us to question the status quo, to challenge our preconceived notions, and to explore new ideas and possibilities. It reminds us that growth and learning are not about accepting reality as it is, but about actively engaging with it, deconstructing it, and reconstructing it in our own terms. This process of “splitting apart” and reassembling can lead to new insights, personal growth, and transformation.