Magnificent post in so many ways, including the way you select paintings in “retrospective-style” so we see the trajectory of her work. I have been lucky enough to see a few of her individual paintings “up close,” but what you do here, with deep knowledge that you are able to communicate to readers so well, is give us much more depth of and context for understanding each work. I found the sunflower painting particularly engaging—so exuberant, sort of an exploded Van Gogh. The hemlock painting also held particular appeal—its form seemed to peak through the abstraction in the most delightful way, and of course the association with the Stevens poem made the experience of the painting all the richer. Thank you so much for this splendid post!
Thank you for the kind words. As an art historian, I tend to think chronologically, but I'm never sure that others will enjoy that perspective. Hemlock was a new discovery for me and actually beat out my favorite of her works for inclusion. (It's this beauty from the Art Institute of Chicago: https://www.joanmitchellfoundation.org/joan-mitchell/artwork/0006-city-landscape) Thanks for your comments as always.
Love the one that is your favorite! And of course love, too, that it is in my hometown Art Institute. Even though I am now in NYC, where there is plenty great art, nothing claims my heart more than the Art Institute.
Excellent article that has enhanced my appreciation for the Remarkable talent of Joan Mitchell
Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
I wish I could get up close and personal with Hemlock. I knew nothing about Joan Mitchell. Thanks for this.
You're very welcome. Her work really rewards in-person looking, so much texture and subtle color interactions. Thanks for commenting.
Had the great pleasure of seeing her work at the Winnipeg Art Gallery this past winter. Would love to see a one woman show featuring her painting.
Magnificent post in so many ways, including the way you select paintings in “retrospective-style” so we see the trajectory of her work. I have been lucky enough to see a few of her individual paintings “up close,” but what you do here, with deep knowledge that you are able to communicate to readers so well, is give us much more depth of and context for understanding each work. I found the sunflower painting particularly engaging—so exuberant, sort of an exploded Van Gogh. The hemlock painting also held particular appeal—its form seemed to peak through the abstraction in the most delightful way, and of course the association with the Stevens poem made the experience of the painting all the richer. Thank you so much for this splendid post!
Thank you for the kind words. As an art historian, I tend to think chronologically, but I'm never sure that others will enjoy that perspective. Hemlock was a new discovery for me and actually beat out my favorite of her works for inclusion. (It's this beauty from the Art Institute of Chicago: https://www.joanmitchellfoundation.org/joan-mitchell/artwork/0006-city-landscape) Thanks for your comments as always.
Love the one that is your favorite! And of course love, too, that it is in my hometown Art Institute. Even though I am now in NYC, where there is plenty great art, nothing claims my heart more than the Art Institute.
I didn't know this artist before. Thank you!
I'm always happy to introduce artists to new fans. Thanks for your comment.