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Student Artwork Guide

Self-Portrait

Joan Miró, 1917

Name Class Date
Joan Miró, Self-Portrait (1917). Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder.

The facts

Artist
Joan Miró wahooart.com/en/artists/joan-miro/
Artist’s dates
1893 – 1983
Painted
1917
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
61 x 50 cm
Movement
Surrealism Dream logic painted with waking precision: impossible things shown as if they were ordinary.
Period
Early Modern
Notable_elements
Unconventional color palette with purples, blues, and yellows for the face, Intricate patterns on the suit, Bold, expressive lines and thick impasto textures
Style
Expressive, Abstract
Subject
Portrait of a man

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Joan Miró died in 1983; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2053. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Aug. 25, 2026

Self-Portrait — Joan Miró Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Self-Portrait — Joan Miró

How big is it?

The original measures 61 × 50 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1890
  2. 1900
  3. 1910
  4. 1920
  5. 1930
  6. 1940
  7. 1950
  8. 1960
  9. 1970
  10. 1980

Shaded: the lifetime of Joan Miró (1893–1983) ▲ this work, 1917

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: wahooart.com/en/art/similar/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Espresso #595238

    Catalogued palette

    • #595238
    • #2A2A29
    • #79804D
    • #C3A962
    Main colour name
    Espresso
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Softly Mixed Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Aug. 25, 2026

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró

    A Bold Exploration of Identity and Expression

    Joan Miró's 1917 self-portrait is a striking example of early modernist art that challenges traditional portraiture norms. This captivating piece invites viewers to explore the complexities of human identity through its unconventional use of color, texture, and form.

    Composition and Style: A Surrealist Masterpiece

    The composition centers around a man depicted in a three-quarter view, with his head slightly tilted, adding dynamism to the portrait. Miró's style here is expressive and abstract, blending elements of Surrealism, Fauvism, and Expressionism. The background is a solid green, providing a stark contrast to the subject's face and attire, which are rendered in earthy browns, blacks, purples, blues, and yellows.

    Technique and Materials: Impasto and Bold Brushstrokes

    Miró employs thick, impasto-like textures and bold brushstrokes, particularly around the contours of the man’s face and suit. The visible brushstrokes add depth and dimension to the artwork, creating a tactile quality that draws viewers in. The intricate patterns on the man's suit further enhance the complexity of the composition.

    Historical Context: Miró's Evolution

    Created in 1917, this self-portrait reflects Miró's transition from his early Fauvist influences to a more personal and symbolic style. During this period, Miró was experimenting with various techniques and materials, rejecting conventional painting methods in favor of a more expressive and individualistic approach.

    Symbolism and Emotional Impact: A Surreal Journey

    The unconventional color palette and distorted features symbolize the multifaceted nature of human identity. The surreal elements evoke a sense of curiosity and intrigue, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the subject’s character and Miró's artistic intent. The emotional tone is intense and somewhat unsettling, reflecting the artist's exploration of the subconscious mind.

    Why This Artwork Stands Out

    Miró's 1917 self-portrait is a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring influence on modern art. Its bold use of color, texture, and form makes it a captivating addition to any art collection or interior design project. Whether you are an art lover, collector, or interior designer, this piece offers a unique blend of historical significance and emotional depth.

    Bring This Masterpiece into Your Space

    Experience the vibrant energy and artistic brilliance of Joan Miró by adding a high-quality reproduction of this self-portrait to your collection. Its striking colors and dynamic composition make it a perfect focal point for any room, adding a touch of modernist elegance and surreal charm.

    Explore More of Joan Miró's Works

    Discover the full range of Joan Miró's artistic genius by exploring his other masterpieces. From Surrealist paintings to abstract sculptures, Miró's works continue to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts worldwide. Visit AllPaintingsStore.com to browse our extensive collection of high-quality reproductions and find the perfect piece for your space.

    Join the Conversation

    Share your thoughts and experiences with Joan Miró's self-portrait on social media using #JoanMiro #SelfPortrait #ModernArt. Connect with fellow art lovers and collectors to celebrate the enduring legacy of this remarkable artist.

    Elevate Your Space with Art

    Transform your home or office into a gallery-worthy space with high-quality reproductions from AllPaintingsStore.com. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every piece we offer captures the essence and beauty of the original artwork, allowing you to enjoy the masterpieces of renowned artists like Joan Miró in your own environment.

    Discover the Art of Joan Miró**

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Joan Miró, a pioneering Spanish painter, sculptor, and ceramicist. Explore his Surrealist and abstract masterpieces, Catalan symbolism, and lasting legacy in modern art. Visit AllPaintingsStore.com to view works by Miró and other celebrated artists, and find inspiration for your next artistic acquisition.

    Plan Your Visit to Fundació Joan Miró**

    For an unforgettable art experience, plan a visit to the Fundació Joan Miró in Barcelona. This renowned museum houses the largest collection of Miró's art, offering a unique opportunity to explore his paintings, sculptures, and ceramics in a space designed by architect Josep Lluís Sert.

    Celebrate the Legacy of Joan Miró**

    Joan Miró's self-portrait from 1917 is more than just a painting; it is a testament to the artist's innovative spirit and enduring influence on modern art. By adding this masterpiece to your collection, you celebrate not only Miró's artistic genius but also the rich history and cultural significance of his work.

    Experience the Magic of Art

    At AllPaintingsStore.com, we believe that art has the power to transform spaces and inspire lives. Our high-quality reproductions allow you to experience the magic of renowned artists like Joan Miró in your own home or office. Explore our collection today and discover the perfect piece to elevate your space.

    Connect with Art Lovers Worldwide

    Join a global community of art enthusiasts, collectors, and interior designers who share a passion for the works of Joan Miró and other celebrated artists. Share your favorite pieces, exchange ideas, and stay inspired by the beauty and creativity that art brings to our lives.

    Invest in Art with Confidence

    When you choose AllPaintingsStore.com for your high-quality reproductions, you invest in art with confidence. Our commitment to authenticity, quality, and customer satisfaction ensures that every piece we offer is a true representation of the original artwork. Elevate your space with the timeless beauty of Joan Miró's self-portrait and other masterpieces from our collection.

    Discover the Story Behind the Art

    Each artwork tells a story, and Joan Miró's self-portrait from 1917 is no exception. Dive into the historical context, symbolism, and emotional impact of this captivating piece. Learn about Miró's artistic journey, his influences, and the techniques that made him one of the most important figures in 20th-century art.

    Create a Gallery-Worthy Space

    Transform your home or office into a gallery-worthy space with high-quality reproductions from AllPaintingsStore.com. Our extensive collection of artworks by renowned artists like Joan Miró allows you to curate a personalized gallery that reflects your unique style and taste.

    Experience the Joy of Art

    Art has the power to bring joy, inspiration, and beauty into our lives. At AllPaintingsStore.com, we are dedicated to making high-quality reproductions accessible to everyone. Explore our collection today and discover the perfect piece to brighten your space and uplift your spirit.

    Join Us on a Journey Through Art History

    Embark on a journey through art history with AllPaintingsStore.com. From the masterpieces of the Renaissance to the innovative works of modern artists like Joan Miró, our collection offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Discover the stories behind the artworks and the artists who created them.

    Elevate Your Interior Design with Art

    Interior designers know that art is a powerful tool for transforming spaces. High-quality reproductions from AllPaintingsStore.com allow you to incorporate the beauty and creativity of renowned artists into your design projects. Elevate your interiors with the timeless elegance of Joan Miró's self-portrait and other masterpieces.

    Celebrate the Power of Art

    Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and uplift us. At AllPaintingsStore.com, we celebrate the transformative potential of art by offering high-quality reproductions that capture the essence and beauty of the original works. Join us in celebrating the power of art and its ability to enrich our lives.

    Discover the Art of Joan Miró Today

    Experience the vibrant world of Joan Miró, a pioneering Spanish painter, sculptor, and ceramicist. Explore his Surrealist and abstract masterpieces, Catalan symbolism, and lasting legacy in modern art. Visit AllPaintingsStore.com to view works by Miró and other celebrated artists, and find inspiration for your next artistic acquisition.

    Bring the Magic of Art into Your Life

    At AllPaintingsStore.com, we believe that art has the power to transform spaces and inspire lives. Our high-quality reproductions allow you to experience the magic of renowned artists like Joan Miró in your own home or office. Explore our collection today and discover the perfect piece to elevate your space.

    Connect with Art Lovers Worldwide

    Join a global community of art enthusiasts, collectors, and interior designers who share a passion for the works of Joan Miró and other celebrated artists. Share your favorite pieces, exchange ideas, and stay inspired by the beauty and creativity that art brings to our lives.

    Invest

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Aug. 25, 2026

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Joan Miró

    Born in Barcelona, Spain

    A Catalan Visionary: The Life and Art of Joan Miró

    Joan Miró i Ferrà, born in Barcelona in 1893, stands as one of the most significant figures in 20th-century art. His journey was not merely a progression through styles but an exploration of inner worlds, translating dreams, memories, and Catalan identity onto canvas with a uniquely poetic visual language. From humble beginnings marked by illness and initial parental reservations about his artistic pursuits, Miró persevered, driven by an innate need to express the intangible—the emotions, sensations, and subconscious currents that lie beneath the surface of reality. His early life was steeped in the traditions of Barcelona, a city brimming with architectural marvels thanks to Antoni Gaudí, whose organic forms would subtly influence Miró’s later abstractions. The goldsmithing profession of his father instilled an appreciation for meticulous craftsmanship, while the rugged Catalan landscape became a recurring motif and source of inspiration throughout his career.

    Early Influences and the Path to Surrealism

    Miró's formal artistic training began at La Llotja in Barcelona, where he honed his skills in traditional techniques. However, it was exposure to the avant-garde movements sweeping through Paris that truly ignited his creative evolution. The vibrant colors of Fauvism and the fragmented forms of Cubism resonated deeply, prompting him to move to Paris in 1920. This period proved pivotal as he encountered artists like Pablo Picasso and began experimenting with increasingly abstract compositions. Yet, Miró didn’t simply adopt these styles; he synthesized them, forging a path toward his own distinctive aesthetic. He sought to distill forms to their essence, stripping away representational details in favor of symbolic shapes and evocative colors. This exploration led him to the Surrealist group in 1924, aligning him with artists such as Max Ernst and Salvador Dalí. While embracing the Surrealist interest in the subconscious, Miró maintained a unique sensibility—his work was less about shocking imagery or Freudian symbolism than it was about creating a world of playful forms and poetic suggestion.

    The Language of Symbols: Key Works and Artistic Innovations

    Throughout the 1920s and 30s, Miró developed his signature visual vocabulary—a universe populated by biomorphic shapes, floating forms, and vibrant colors. The Farm (1922), often considered a cornerstone of his oeuvre, exemplifies this transition. It’s not merely a depiction of rural life but an evocation of Catalan identity and a symbolic representation of the natural world. His collaborative spirit led to innovative techniques like grattage, pioneered with Max Ernst in 1926 for designs intended for Sergei Diaghilev's ballet, where textures were revealed by scraping paint across canvas. The Dutch Interiors (1928) series demonstrated his ability to reinterpret the Old Masters through a distinctly modern lens, transforming domestic scenes into dreamlike abstractions. Painting (1933), with its bold colors and simplified forms, encapsulates Miró’s exploration of the subconscious and his rejection of conventional artistic boundaries. Beyond painting, Miró fearlessly experimented with sculpture, ceramics, and printmaking, expanding his creative horizons and demonstrating a remarkable versatility.

    Legacy and Enduring Influence

    Joan Miró's impact on 20th-century art is undeniable. He wasn’t simply a painter; he was a visionary who challenged the very definition of artistic expression. His work paved the way for abstract expressionism and continues to inspire artists across disciplines. He established two foundations—the Fundació Joan Miró in Barcelona (1975) and the Fundació Pilar i Joan Miró in Palma de Mallorca (1981)—ensuring that his legacy would endure, providing spaces for artistic exploration and education. Throughout his long career, he remained committed to pushing boundaries, questioning conventions, and exploring the depths of human imagination. Miró’s art is a testament to the power of abstraction, symbolism, and poetic expression—a vibrant celebration of life, dreams, and the enduring spirit of Catalan culture. His work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, inviting us to enter a world where anything is possible and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur into a captivating dance of color and form.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Self-Portrait

    wahooart.com/en/art/download/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Miró, Joan. Self-Portrait. 1917, https://wahooart.com/en/art/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/
    APA
    Miró, Joan (1917). Self-Portrait [Painting]. https://wahooart.com/en/art/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/
    Chicago
    Joan Miró. Self-Portrait. 1917. https://wahooart.com/en/art/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/
    Harvard
    Miró, Joan (1917) Self-Portrait. Available at: https://wahooart.com/en/art/joan-miro-self-portrait-5ZKCUK-en/

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Aug. 25, 2026

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. How many faces can you find? ____ (our catalogue counts 1 — do you agree?)
    4. Our catalogue files this work under: self-portrait, surrealism, expressionism. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    5. Look back at Ciphers and Constellations, in Love with a Woman (1941), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Aug. 25, 2026

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Self-Portrait — Joan Miró

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 3 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. Which artistic movement is Joan Miró's 'Self-Portrait' (1917) most commonly associated with?

      • A Impressionism
      • B Surrealism
      • C Cubism

    2. 2. What is the dominant color used in the background of Joan Miró's 'Self-Portrait' (1917)?

      • A Blue
      • B Green
      • C Red

    3. 3. Which of the following techniques is prominently featured in Joan Miró's 'Self-Portrait' (1917)?

      • A Pointillism
      • B Impasto
      • C Stippling

    My score: ____ out of 3

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1B · 2B · 3B