Ninth Street Women: Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler

Ninth Street Women: Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler by Mary Gabriel weaves an extraordinary tapestry of creativity, resilience, and transformation. Set against the backdrop of postwar America, this riveting narrative recounts the lives of five pioneering female artists who defied the norms of their male-dominated world. Mary Gabriel, through meticulous research and eloquent prose, illuminates the struggles, triumphs, and indomitable spirits of these women, capturing a pivotal moment in the history of modern art. Drawing the reader into the heart of mid-20th-century New York City, the book follows Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler, who each carved out their unique paths in the turbulent and exhilarating abstract expressionist movement. Working in drafty lofts with scant resources, these women wrestled with societal expectations while contributing profoundly to the art world. Their art was not merely an act of creation but a statement of defiance and liberation. Embodying a fiery spirit, Lee Krasner was not only a formidable artist in her own right but also an influential figure before her high-profile marriage to Jackson Pollock. Her leadership and raw talent positioned her as a keystone of the modern art scene. Elaine de Kooning, known for her intellect and charisma, became the emotional and intellectual heart of the New York School. Her spirited endeavours through both her art and writing bridged the gap between avant-garde abstractionists and a sceptical public, advocating tirelessly for understanding and acceptance. Grace Hartigan's journey from a New Jersey housewife to a celebrated painter showcases her remarkable bravery and passion. Fearless and committed, she pursued her artistic vision despite daunting personal sacrifices, gaining recognition as one of the era's most daring talents. Joan Mitchell, with her seemingly impervious exterior, guarded a sensitive soul. She overcame a privileged yet painful upbringing in Chicago to pour her fierce emotions and unique perspective into her grand, evocative canvases. Helen Frankenthaler, emerging from an esteemed New York family, faced an arduous path in the art world. Her breakthrough came at the young age of twenty-three, when she created an innovative painting style that spurred a new artistic movement, solidifying her mark in art history. Through the lives of these five women, Ninth Street Women explores the seismic shifts in culture and society wrought by their work and dedication. Gabriel's compelling narrative is a testament to the transformative power of art and the relentless drive of those who create it. This book is an inspiring journey into the lives of artists who not only reshaped American art but also championed a new doctrine of freedom and expression that continues to influence the world today.