Joan Mitchell: Paintings from the Middle of the Last Century at CHEIM & READ

James Kalm has been following the work of Joan Mitchell for nearly fifty years, ever since his first introduction, as an undergraduate student. With his increased interest in the history of the New York School, his admiration for Mitchell has only been amplified This show is an insightful addition to understanding the early career of the painter, and provides examples of a decade of work that marks her transition from student, to journeyman, to master. It also marks the penultimate exhibition of the Cheim & Read Gallery, who for over twenty years has been exhibiting and promoting some of the best painting in the city. Cheim & Read will continue as a private interest, but the end of their museum grade exhibitions at this venue will leave a vacancy in the local painter’s world. A musical introduction is provided by Electric Jiggy. This program was recorded September 26, 2018