Happy Birthday Joan Miró
The Spanish painter, Joan Miró, was born on April 20, 1893, in Montroig, Spain. He died at age 90 in Palma de Majorca, Spain. For those of you who are observant, this means his date of birth (1893) and date of death (1983) are the same numbers in different order. I am sure folks who study numbers could find underlying meaning in the similarity of the numbers, but I think there is a symmetry, not unlike the visual language of symbols Miró developed in his paintings. And, while there are certainly more learned scholars who have written about Miró, his art, and contribution to art history, this post is not meant to address this important information (but I hope it makes you curious for more information). THIS, my friends, is a celebration of Joan Miró and his art. So, strap on your birthday party hat and let's celebrate Joan Miró. Here are three factoids about Joan Miró:
Joan Miró moved to Paris in 1920. It was in Paris where he met Ernest Hemingway, as well as fellow Spaniard, Pablo Picasso. Both Picasso and Hemingway bought paintings from Miró. Maybe it is just me, but ... think about that for a minute. Now, THAT is a story my friends.
At the 1937 International Exposition in Paris, Pablo Picasso exhibited his famous painting, "Guernica". Joan Miró also had a painting, "The Reaper", on exhibit in the Spanish Pavilion beside "Guernica". However, "The Reaper" was lost or damaged and a few black and white photographs are all that remain of his work.
Joan Miró was a prolific painter late in life. He apparently maintained a rigid daily work/studio schedule. It was also said that he had a sense of humor (and dare I say, a curiosity) which I think shows - especially in his later work.
No birthday party is complete without party favors. Am I right? So, here are a few resources to continue the Joan Miró party: