Untitled c. 1960

This is an Untitled work of unknown date by Joan Mitchell, created using black ink on paper. Mitchell emerged in the male-dominated Abstract Expressionist scene of the mid-20th century. Her work, characterized by energetic brushstrokes and a bold use of color, often reflects her emotional responses to nature and personal experiences. Mitchell's position as a woman in the art world has greatly influenced the reception of her work. While her male counterparts were often celebrated for their bravado, Mitchell had to navigate a context ripe with sexism. Despite these challenges, she asserted her vision, stating: "I paint from remembered landscapes that I carry with me - and remembered feelings of them, which of course become transformed." This particular piece embodies the gestural abstraction for which she is known. The stark black ink conveys a sense of immediacy, capturing a moment of intense feeling. It invites us to consider how the artist's identity shapes both the creation and perception of her work.