Joan Mitchell: Paintings, 1979-1985

Discover Joan Mitchell's powerful and dynamic work—spotlighted in this book as never before

Joan Mitchell: Paintings, 1979-1985 is a highly anticipated publication focusing on a significant and deeply generative period within Joan Mitchell's decades-long career. This book covers the years 1979 to 1985, a time when Mitchell, then in her 50s, reached peak form, as noted by Jerry Saltz in New York magazine: "An entry for one of the best shows of 2022. . . . Mitchell, then in her 50s, reaches peak form in gathering brushstrokes that flicker and burn like auras on fire."

During this period, Mitchell became even more fully immersed in daily life at her property in Vétheuil, France. Surrounded by lush gardens and challenged and inspired by new creative relationships, her studio practice flourished. Her work became even more ambitious and expansive. Executed in an increasingly bold palette, the works from this period exemplify Mitchell's nuanced mastery of composition, scale, and colour.

This publication not only showcases Mitchell's large-scale abstract works but also includes numerous smaller paintings and a selection of archival materials. The book is enriched by several texts that complement the illustrated works.

A new essay by the bestselling author Julie Otsuka recollects her encounters with Mitchell's paintings over the years. Additionally, a fascinating conversation between Mitchell and the French philosopher Yves Michaud from 1986 is featured. Reflections by the artists Amy Sillman, Shinique Smith, and Lily Stockman explore unique components of Mitchell's oeuvre or practice, underscoring her continued influence on artists today.