Paul Smith, curating an exhibition on Picasso Fifty years after the famous artist's death, the Musée National Picasso in Paris wished to pay homage to him with a special exhibition, curated in collaboration with the English designer who did not fail to offer his creative vision

It is 50 years since the death of Pablo Picasso, who died in Mougins, southern France, on 8 April 1973. To mark this important anniversary, the Musée National Picasso in Paris has entrusted the multifaceted and visionary Paul Smith with the task of creating a unique exhibition – among the many not to be missed at this time – aimed at celebrating the beloved artist and his impressive creative legacy.

Open to the public from 7 March at the Musée National Picasso in Paris, and curated by Cecile Debray, president of the museum, together with the British designer, the exhibition Picasso Celebration: The Collection in a New Light! Artistic Direction of Paul Smith winds its way through the artist’s most important masterpieces. An invaluable heritage if one considers that the museum holds over 5000 works by Picasso which, together with those in the family archives, add up to about 20,000 in total.

Characterising the exhibition, Paul Smith’s original approach invites the public to look at the works under a different, more contemporary lens. What emerges is a convergence of visions, suggestions, inspirations.

The opening of the exhibition was celebrated with an exclusive party, promoted by the designer and the French museum, together with many friends and well-known faces including Diana and Olivier Widmaier Picasso, Malgosia Bela, Sophie Hicks, Véronique Nichanian and Sophie Calle to name but a few.