Five Beautiful Things

Painting her Joy

On April 3, singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell was rushed to a California hospital where she remains today. There has been no official word about the cause of her hospitalization or what ails her, but it triggered in me the realization that even the most prolific, brilliant people are vulnerable to time���s meddling fingers. The 71 year-old Canadian musician is considered, worldwide, to be one of the most influential singer-songwriters ever: more than 25 albums released over a career that spans four decades, an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, countless awards and, most importantly, songs that have changed the landscape of music and touched the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world ��� myself included.

Joni���s artistic talents extend well beyond the realm of music, however. She has been a painter for most of her life and the artwork is timeless, engaging and imaginative. As Joni once said, ���I sing my sorrow and I paint my joy.��� With the warmest of wishes for her healthy recovery, I wanted to celebrate Joni���s art this week. Below are five of her paintings, including a few self-portraits. Visit jonimitchell.com for more examples and to explore the work of this amazing artist.