Becoming Picasso: Paris 1901

This exhibition tells the remarkable story of Pablo Picasso's breakthrough year as an artist, in which he launched his career and reputation in Paris.

1901 was a momentous and turbulent year for 19-year-old Picasso as he enjoyed a successful show with one of Paris's most important art dealers Ambroise Vollard. But as he prepared for the show, he received the news that his best friend Carles Casagemas had committed suicide, which had a profound impact on his work as the year unfolded.

Focusing on the artist's figure paintings, this exhibition demonstrates Picasso's extraordinary creative achievements in 1901 – a year in which he produced up to three canvasses in one day in a bid to achieve his goal of being a great painter in Paris.

As well as showcasing Picasso's early works, the exhibition features a collection of essays by leading and emerging art scholars.