Joan Mitchell Paintings, 1979-1985

The years 1979 to 1985 were an important and profoundly generative period in the long career of Joan Mitchell (1925-1992). As the American artist immersed herself in the daily life of her estate at Vétheuil in the Vexin, surrounded by lush gardens, stimulated and inspired by new creative relationships, her studio practice flourished and her work became even more ambitious. Executed in an increasingly bold palette, the works of this period illustrate Joan Mitchell's nuanced mastery of composition, scale and colour.

In addition to the major abstract works of the period, this publication presents numerous smaller paintings and a selection of archival documents, as well as several texts that complement the illustrated works. The book also includes a conversation between Joan Mitchell and the French philosopher Yves Michaud, dating from 1986, as well as reflections by various artists that highlight Joan Mitchell's continuing influence on contemporary artists.