“Trees,” crafted by Joan Mitchell in 1991, is an exemplary piece within the Abstract Expressionism movement and the abstract genre. The artwork is a dramatic and emotive composition that vividly embodies the abstract style through expressive brushwork and dynamic color application.
In the artwork, large, gestural brushstrokes dominate the canvas, creating an intricate interplay of colors and forms. Dark blue and deep red hues merge with splashes of pale lavender, green, and subdued grays, evoking an intense and almost tumultuous natural environment. The strokes appear spontaneous yet deliberate, conveying a sense of movement and emotional depth. The viewer can perceive abstracted arboreal forms amidst the energetic composition, aligning with the artwork’s title. The background, though largely unarticulated, allows the vibrant colors and bold forms to stand out, creating a powerful and immersive visual experience. The piece epitomizes Mitchell’s ability to convey complex emotions and natural inspiration through abstract representation.
