“Boy with Pipe” by Pablo Picasso
Confidential patient transcript (Paris 1901 – 1905) Patient P. Ruiz presents traumatic incident acute depression syndrome; Prognosis - not good. Radical treatment required.
Dr GNAY: How are you feeling today Pablo?
PICASSO: I think I’m starting to see the end of the tunnel. Painting my feelings has been very therapeutic and I have done some decent work, but I’m getting sick of painting the colour blue.
Dr GNAY: Good, good, that’s a good sign! Sublimating depression on canvas often has that effect. It shows you are ready for the next step.
PICASSO: The next step?
Dr GNAY: Yes, we are now going to introduce some red into your work. Paint and wine. The gradual reintroduction of colour into your painting should lift your spirits. The colour red will give your paintings, and your mood, a “Rosy” hopeful tone.
PICASSO: And the wine?
Dr GNAY: A positive trigger to reinforce the art therapy. Paint what you drink. Drink what you paint, That sort of thing.
PICASSO: Brilliant Doctor! I’m all in. Sip, sip, dab, dab. Voila!