Joni Mitchell Releasing New Book of Political Paintings
Joni Mitchell is releasing *NEWS*, a book of 23 political paintings, on 3 November. She describes the work as a protest expressing her concern about the current climate, and says she believes artists have a duty to speak up.
The paintings address the 24-hour news cycle, power, politics and global turbulence, using slogans and song lyrics. A gallery in Venice, California, is due to exhibit them on 29 and 30 October. Mitchell, who recently became a US citizen, has also published a painting collection before, *Morning Glory on the Vine*, in 2019.
- Joni Mitchell’s new book features 23 political paintings.
- *NEWS* is due out on 3 November.
- The paintings will be exhibited in Venice, California.
New here? Start with this
Joni Mitchell is a Canadian-born singer-songwriter and visual artist, known for songs such as “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Both Sides, Now”. She has also published collections of her paintings, including Morning Glory on the Vine in 2019.
Political art has often used images, slogans and references to popular culture to comment on public life. Mitchell says her new paintings respond to news and political events, and reflect her view that artists should speak about issues they consider important.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Mitchell’s paintings can be seen as a legitimate use of artistic freedom to respond to political events and draw attention to issues she finds urgent. Artists bring personal insight and emotion to public debate, and their work may prompt audiences to reflect on the news and the exercise of power.
The case against
Political art can be seen as less persuasive when it relies on slogans or song lyrics, which may simplify complex events or speak mainly to people who already share the artist’s views. Some may also feel that artists’ public platforms give their political messages more prominence than competing perspectives, though artistic freedom includes the choice to make such work.