“God is really only another artist. He invented the giraffe, the elephant and the cat. He has no real style, He just goes on trying other things.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“God is really only another artist. He invented the giraffe, the elephant and the cat. He has no real style, He just goes on trying other things.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso offers a playful and profound analogy, equating God to an artist who, like any creator, experiments with different forms and creations without being bound to a fixed style or method. By mentioning the giraffe, elephant, and cat, he highlights the variety and unpredictability of the world, suggesting that just as an artist tries new things and explores various creative possibilities, so does God in the act of creation. The notion that “God has no real style” implies that even the highest form of creation is not rigid or predictable, but an ongoing process of exploration and experimentation. Picasso, known for constantly reinventing his style throughout his career, aligns this view with his own artistic journey—one in which he continuously pushed the boundaries of his work without being confined by established norms.
This idea is relevant today, particularly in the context of creativity and innovation. The idea of constantly trying new things without being tethered to one style or method is central to the mindset of modern artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Whether in the art world, business, or technology, many successful creators and innovators embrace the idea of experimentation and adaptability, rather than rigidly sticking to one formula or approach. Picasso’s comparison of God to an artist also reflects the spirit of freedom in creativity, where the act of creation is less about perfection and more about discovery and growth.
An example of this philosophy can be seen in the careers of figures like Steve Jobs, whose continual reinvention of Apple showed that innovation comes from constantly trying new ideas and breaking old molds. Similarly, musicians like David Bowie or Prince embraced constantly evolving their sound and image throughout their careers, refusing to be confined by a single identity or style. Picasso’s words remind us that true creativity is often about exploration and transformation, not sticking to one method or idea, just as God, in Picasso’s view, invents without a fixed pattern, always creating and evolving.
