Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) was born in Malaga, Spain. He spent most of his life in France in the company and influence of famous artists. The Blind’s Man Meal was painted during his Blue Period, 1901-1904. During these years of a major depression after the public suicide of his friend, Carles Casagemas, he painted monochromatic pieces of blue and blue-green. He painted loss and mourning in a full gamut of somber scenes and experiences.

Although Picasso rejected his Catholic faith, he remained captivated by religious practices and beliefs. In this piece, which is part of the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, we might see interest in the sacrament of Communion. This frail man, holding bread and touching a pitcher, could challenge us to imagine Communion only felt and our own blindness each day. This figure surrounded by infinite blues could invite each of us to join him at this table and to feel our way through human sadness to the hope of bread, wine and remembrance.

May we find our place in Advent through the eyes of an artist who may have both rejected and painted it for the ages. Amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church