Major museums, art institutions to mark 50 years since Picasso's death

Against the backdrop of Picasso's iconic anti-war painting, "Guernica," the culture ministers of France and Spain have gathered in Madrid to kick off a year of commemorative acts to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the death of the Spanish artist who revolutionised the world of art. Photo: AP

From the Prado museum to the Pompidou Centre and New York's Met, the art world has mobilised to stage "an unprecedented" 42 exhibitions marking 50 years since Picasso's death, officials said on Monday.

Prepared over the past 18 months by France and Spain, the "Year Of Picasso" initiative will involve "38 very important art institutions in Europe and the United States," Spanish Culture Minister Miquel Iceta told reporters.