The first solo publication on Joan Mitchell allows the reader to discover a life and works with an anarchistic conception, urge for freedom and energy-filled gesturesand colours every bit as compelling as her male peers. Between 1950 and 1955, as a recognised member of the Abstract Expressionist circle, Mitchell associated with de Kooning and Franz Kline, whilst continuing with her own independent practice. The timeless motif of her painting is life in its purest form: as movement, transformation, reaction and observation.