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Reviews
Joan Mitchell: Portrait of an Abstract Painter (1993)
Savage, vulnerable, exquisite
Seeing this film on the big screen is by far the best way to view Joan Mitchell's magnificent work. I was floored by the power and lyricism of her paintings, and happily drove an hour and a half twice to view "Joan Mitchell: Portrait of an Abstract Painter" at a film festival. I then purchased the VHS - one of just a few, and very costly. And I have never regretted it. I've watched it many times, and learn so much from it. Now you can buy the DVD for a mere $19.99!
The 2011 biography of Joan Mitchell discusses her destructive behavior in some detail, from what I read in reviews. Anyone who really wants a full sense of this complex artist would do well to hear Cajori's sensitive interviews with her in this film. For all of her issues, Joan Mitchell appears to have been utterly authentic, fiercely loyal to her vision and someone who expressed her vulnerability best and brilliantly on canvas. I recommend this film to anyone, and hope it is featured in more film festivals and screenings.
Good (probably better) reviews of this fine film can be found on Amazon, where the DVD can be purchased.