Celebrated singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell has embraced her dual citizenship, recently acquiring American citizenship after residing in the United States for 62 years. “I became a citizen so I could vote,” she stated in an interview with Rolling Stone. Mitchell characterized herself as a “proud Canerican,” likening her experience to that of fellow musician Neil Young, who gained U.S. citizenship in 2020 after a long journey that included illegally crossing the border in a Pontiac hearse.
New Artistic Endeavors
In addition to her new status as a citizen, Mitchell is preparing to release NEWS, a compelling collection of 23 paintings that delve into the pervasive influence of the 24-hour news cycle. Set to launch on November 4, just days before her 83rd birthday, this project sees Mitchell fully engaged as the artist behind its conception, execution, and design, featuring a blend of lyrics, imagery, and provocative slogans.
A Return to Her First Love: Painting
On the back cover of NEWS, Mitchell reflected, “Recently I retired from music in order to pursue my first love, painting.” She recounted her response to significant historical events, stating that after the September 11 attacks during George W. Bush’s presidency, she created a series of political paintings, expressing her ongoing concerns in today’s climate. “It is an artist’s duty to speak up,” she emphasized.
Art as Protest
Mitchell draws parallels between her artistic expression and that of historical figures, stating, “Picasso created ‘Guernica’ to protest the Spanish Civil War. Charlie Chaplin’s film The Great Dictator ridiculed Hitler. Mel Brooks’ comedy The Producers also took a poke at that mad man with Springtime for Hitler. NEWS is my protest song — a song not for the ears, but for the eyes. I hope that you will not be offended by the truth of it. This is not fake news!”
Purchase and Exhibition Information
Mitchell’s website and Julien’s Publishing. An exclusive auction, NEWS: Numbered, Signed & Personalized, featuring the first ten copies, will run from October 15 to October 29, with proceeds benefitting various charities such as the ACLU, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Save The Children, and ASPCA.
Upcoming Exhibition
Additionally, the paintings from NEWS will be showcased at the L.A. Louver gallery in Venice, California, on October 29 and 30.
A Continuing Legacy
The release of NEWS follows her previous work, Morning Glory on the Vine, a 2019 book comprised of watercolor paintings, handwritten lyrics, and poetry. Next month will also mark a milestone anniversary for her landmark album Hejira, which has been recognized in Rolling Stone’s list of the 76 Best Albums of 1976.
