15 Pablo Picasso Quotes on Creativity and Imagination

Pablo Picasso was one of the most famous artists of the 20th century who transformed the art world with his pioneering creativity and co-founding of the Cubist movement.

Throughout his life, Picasso produced over 130,000 works, including paintings, drawings, ceramics and even poetry, showcasing his genius across various art forms.

His quotes reflect his deep insights into life, creativity and the artistic process, offering wisdom that transcends the canvas.

Picasso’s words inspire artists and non-artists alike, providing a unique perspective on the meaning of life and the power of creativity.

Whether discussing art, love, or the human experience, Picasso’s reflections continue to resonate, inspiring new generations to view the world through a creative lens.


1. “Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Art is the lie that enables us to realize the truth

This quote encapsulates the paradox of art.

It suggests that while art may not depict reality in a literal sense, it serves a deeper purpose.

Through abstraction and imagination, art reveals truths about human experience and emotion that might otherwise remain concealed.

It invites viewers to engage with their own perceptions and understandings, transforming subjective interpretations into profound insights about life, society and the self.

See Also: 15 Inspiring Leonardo da Vinci Quotes for Greatness

2. “Action is the foundational key to all success.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Action is the foundational key to all success

Success is not merely a product of dreams or ideas; it requires decisive action.

This quote emphasizes that taking initiative and executing plans is essential for achieving goals.

It suggests that without action, aspirations remain unfulfilled.

By highlighting the importance of movement and effort, Picasso encourages individuals to step beyond contemplation and actively pursue their ambitions, reinforcing the idea that progress is rooted in tangible steps.

3. “Computers are useless. They can only give you answers.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Computers are useless. They can only give you answers

In this statement, Picasso critiques the limitations of technology in creative processes.

He implies that while computers can provide information and solutions, they lack the capacity for creativity and emotional depth.

True artistry requires intuition, imagination and personal experience—qualities that cannot be replicated by machines.

This perspective underscores the irreplaceable value of human creativity in an increasingly digital world.

4. “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life

Art serves as a cleansing force, allowing individuals to escape the mundane and rejuvenate their spirits.

This quote highlights the therapeutic power of artistic expression, suggesting that engaging with art can refresh one’s perspective and emotional state.

It acts as a sanctuary from the routine burdens of life, providing solace and inspiration. Through art, we can reconnect with our inner selves and find clarity amid chaos.

5. “Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not

This quote reflects a visionary mindset that challenges conventional thinking.

Picasso distinguishes between passive observation and active imagination. While many accept the status quo, he advocates for innovation and possibility.

By questioning limitations and envisioning alternatives, he inspires creativity and progress.

This approach encourages individuals to explore new ideas and embrace the potential for change in their lives and work.

6. “Everything you can imagine is real.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Imagination is a powerful force that shapes our reality. This quote suggests that the boundaries of what can exist are defined by our creativity.

Picasso emphasizes the importance of envisioning possibilities, asserting that ideas born in the mind can manifest in the physical world.

This perspective encourages individuals to harness their imagination, fostering a belief that dreams and aspirations can be transformed into tangible realities through effort and determination.

7. “Every act of creation is first an act of destruction.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Every act of creation is first an act of destruction

Creation often involves dismantling existing forms or ideas to make way for something new.

Picasso’s quote highlights the inherent conflict in the creative process, where destruction is a necessary precursor to innovation.

This cycle of breaking down and rebuilding allows for fresh perspectives and original expressions.

It serves as a reminder that growth and transformation often require letting go of the old to embrace the new.

8. “The chief enemy of creativity is good sense.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Conventional wisdom and practicality can stifle creativity. Picasso suggests that adhering too closely to societal norms and rationality can inhibit artistic expression.

True creativity flourishes in an environment that encourages risk-taking and unconventional thinking.

This quote advocates for embracing chaos and intuition, allowing artists to explore uncharted territories without the constraints of logic or good sense.

9. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” ~ Pablo Picasso

This quote underscores the importance of self-discovery and altruism.

Picasso suggests that life’s fulfillment comes from recognizing one’s unique talents and sharing them with others.

By giving away our gifts, we contribute to the greater good and enrich the lives of those around us.

This philosophy promotes a sense of community and interconnectedness, highlighting that true purpose lies in service and generosity.

Read Also: 15 Inspirational Quotes on Creativity from Visionary Artists

10. “Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone

Procrastination can lead to regret and this quote serves as a stark reminder of the importance of urgency in pursuing one’s goals.

Picasso advocates for a proactive approach to life, urging individuals to prioritize their passions and responsibilities.

By framing tasks in terms of their significance to one’s legacy, he encourages a mindset that values action over hesitation, prompting individuals to seize the moment.

11. “The world doesn’t make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?” ~ Pablo Picasso

This quote embraces the absurdity of life and the freedom of artistic expression.

Picasso suggests that art should reflect the chaotic and often illogical nature of existence rather than conform to traditional standards of coherence.

By rejecting the need for clarity, he opens the door to exploring complex emotions and experiences, allowing art to serve as a mirror to the unpredictable reality of human life.

12. “There is only one way to see things, until someone shows us how to look at them with different eyes.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Perspective is key to understanding and interpreting the world. Picasso emphasizes that our views are often limited by our experiences and beliefs.

However, exposure to new ideas and viewpoints can transform our understanding.

This quote encourages openness and curiosity, suggesting that true insight comes from engaging with diverse perspectives and challenging our own assumptions.

13. “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist

Mastery of technique is essential for creative freedom.

Picasso advocates for a thorough understanding of the fundamentals before daring to innovate.

This approach allows artists to confidently deconstruct established norms and forge their own paths.

By blending skill with imagination, one can create original works that resonate on a deeper level, illustrating that true artistry lies in the balance of knowledge and creativity.

14. “Good artists copy. Great artists steal.” ~ Pablo Picasso

This quote provocatively challenges the notion of originality in art.

Picasso suggests that the best artists do not merely imitate but rather absorb influences and recontextualize them into something new.

This process of “stealing” involves taking inspiration and transforming it, creating a unique expression that reflects the artist’s voice.

It encourages a collaborative spirit in creativity, emphasizing that art is built upon the foundations laid by others.

15. “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Creativity is not solely a product of inspiration; it requires effort and dedication.

Picasso asserts that while inspiration may strike unexpectedly, it is through consistent work that one cultivates an environment for creativity to flourish.

This quote emphasizes the importance of discipline and perseverance in the artistic process, suggesting that the act of creating itself can spark inspiration and lead to breakthroughs.

15 Pablo Picasso Quotes on Creativity and Imagination - Motivational Quotes - Inspirational Quotes
Chandan Negi
Chandan Negi

I love sharing inspirational and motivational quotes, captions, wishes, messages, jokes, puns and riddles to inspire, motivate and make people happy - #quotes #captions #wishes #messages #jokes #puns and #riddles #inboxquotes