With Bidnis Dora Maar, Picasso reinforces his reputation as a breaker of every rule in art and his style of Cubism. This crowded composition of shapes, patterns and bright colors is not a straightforward portrait. I always wonder how Dora Maar felt about Picasso’s rendering of her! This work does, though, seem to bring forward a theme of self-deception that plagues we humans. This crazy juxtaposition of face and profile seems to hold the tension of perception and reality that can be part of positions we claim as true about ourselves and others. Picasso saw much in each human face and challenges us to see more also. This work is in the Musee Picasso in Paris.

A portrait is, in essence, our reflection in the mirror of the artist. It brings to mind the mystery of what others see in our faces and how our guesses about their opinions affect our own images of self. The way we see ourselves and the way others see us can be a trap of doubt but within these is an opportunity to affirm God’s love and acceptance beyond this world. We are children of God. God loves us without question, qualification, requirement. God loves us as we are. Full stop.

Thanks be to God.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church