Great Lakes Abstract Fine Art Prints by Canadian Artist Patti Friday

NEW abstract fine art prints

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Capturing the essence of life, documenting as I go; the quiet beautiful moments or hurried, cinematic scenes of the 'everyday'. Often poetic, sometimes irreverent. I am endlessly inspired by fond memories, lakeside summers, cozy winters, and daydreaming ideas. I play with many mediums and subject matters.

Although I personally live a casual, laid-back lifestyle, I am a Fine Artist who creates modern, ORIGINAL works that add beauty and style to any space. Be it minimalist, eclectic, country or traditional.

I love fresh, quirky, graphic imagery mixed with colourful, folkloric elements, symbolic layers + typography. I digitally blend some of my collected images with my own photography + paintings. They are modern and decorative; perfect for today's contemporary interiors.

Thank You for decorating your spaces with my art! 

Peace Love Create Art, 

Patti

COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Joan Mitchell: American Abstract Painter and Dog Lover

Joan Mitchell, an extraordinary figure in 20th-century art, remains one of the most celebrated painters of the Abstract Expressionist movement. Born on February 12, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, she grew to redefine abstraction, blending emotional intensity with lyrical beauty. Her work, characterized by dynamic brushstrokes, vivid colors, and profound emotional depth, established her as a towering presence in a predominantly male art world. Beyond her technical prowess, Mitchell’s life and career are testaments to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of art.

Celebrating Mitchell’s Centennial in 2025

Joan Mitchell was born February 12, 1925, and her impact on the art world continues to resonate over 30 years after her death in 1992. The Joan Mitchell Foundation will commemorate Mitchell’s centennial throughout 2025 with a robust series of programs and events—anchored by presentations of her work in museums around the world—in collaboration with museum partners in the United States and France, where Mitchell lived for much of her life. The Foundation will also significantly expand the information about Mitchell’s life and creative context made available through its own website and social media, including digitally releasing a documentary film on Mitchell that has been unavailable for many years. Together, these activities will give a wide range of audiences an opportunity to experience her work and learn more about her life, career, and enduring influence.

“The centennial is an important occasion both to honor Joan Mitchell’s creative process and remarkable contributions to abstract painting, and to foster a deeper understanding of her lasting legacy and, especially, her support for other artists,” said Christa Blatchford, Executive Director of the Joan Mitchell Foundation. “Throughout the centennial year programs, we will be highlighting Mitchell’s vital role in art history, which continues to inspire new interpretations, contrasts, and points of comparison that underscore her unique vision. At the same time, this year of programming and related announcements will spotlight the artists and communities whose work and creativity Mitchell generously supported during her lifetime and, through this Foundation, after her death.”

Early Life and Education

Joan Mitchell was born into a well-to-do family, with a poet mother, Marion Strobel, and a doctor father, James Herbert Mitchell. Raised in an environment steeped in culture and intellect, Mitchell developed a keen appreciation for art and literature early on. Her artistic journey began in earnest at the Art Institute of Chicago, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1947. She later moved to New York City, immersing herself in the burgeoning post-war art scene and pursuing advanced studies at Columbia University.

Mitchell’s formative years were marked by her exposure to various artistic movements and her determination to forge her path. Influenced by the works of Paul Cézanne, Wassily Kandinsky, and Vincent van Gogh, she absorbed lessons from both European and American traditions. However, Mitchell’s unique voice quickly emerged, shaped by her intuition and her visceral responses to the natural world.

Career and Artistic Evolution

Mitchell’s arrival in New York coincided with the rise of Abstract Expressionism, a movement dominated by figures like Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko. While she shared their interest in abstraction and spontaneity, her approach was distinctly her own. Mitchell’s paintings often reflected her deep connection to landscapes and nature, translating the beauty and chaos of the natural world into vibrant, gestural works.

Her early works, such as Untitled (1951) and City Landscape (1955), exhibit a dynamic interplay of color and form, evoking the energy of urban and natural environments. These paintings reveal her mastery of composition and her ability to balance intensity with lyricism. Unlike some of her contemporaries who pursued pure abstraction, Mitchell’s work retained a sense of place, often inspired by specific memories or scenes.

By the late 1950s, Mitchell had gained recognition for her work, participating in major exhibitions and earning critical acclaim. She became one of the few women artists associated with the "second generation" of Abstract Expressionists. However, her success did not shield her from the challenges of being a female artist in a male-dominated field. Mitchell’s determination and unwavering commitment to her vision enabled her to transcend these barriers, forging a legacy that continues to inspire.

Life in France and Mature Work

In 1959, Joan Mitchell moved to France, initially dividing her time between Paris and the countryside before settling in Vétheuil, a village near Claude Monet’s famed Giverny. The French landscape profoundly influenced her work, providing a rich source of inspiration and a backdrop for her creative explorations.

Her mature works, such as La Grande Vallée series (1983–1984), demonstrate her evolving style. These large-scale canvases, characterized by sweeping brushstrokes and layered textures, convey a sense of emotional intensity and spatial depth. The series, inspired by a friend’s description of an idyllic place, exemplifies Mitchell’s ability to evoke profound feelings through abstraction.

Mitchell’s later works often reflect themes of memory, loss, and resilience. Paintings like River (1989) and Sunflowers (1990–1991) reveal her continued engagement with nature and her capacity to translate complex emotions into visual form. Her use of color—bold yet nuanced—creates a dynamic interplay between chaos and harmony, echoing the rhythms of life itself.

Legacy and Impact

Joan Mitchell’s contributions to art extend beyond her paintings. As a trailblazer for women in the arts, she challenged the gender norms of her time, paving the way for future generations of female artists. Her work has been celebrated in major retrospectives and continues to be exhibited in prestigious institutions worldwide.

In 1992, the Joan Mitchell Foundation was established to support contemporary artists and preserve her legacy. The foundation’s programs, which include grants, residencies, and educational initiatives, reflect Mitchell’s belief in the transformative power of art and her commitment to fostering creativity.

Mitchell’s influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists who share her interest in abstraction, emotion, and the natural world. Her paintings, with their vibrant energy and profound depth, remain a source of inspiration and a testament to the enduring power of art.

Personal Struggles and Resilience

Despite her success, Joan Mitchell’s life was not without challenges. She faced periods of self-doubt, struggled with alcoholism, and endured personal losses. These experiences, however, often fueled her art, providing a wellspring of emotion that she channeled into her work.

Mitchell’s resilience is evident in her ability to navigate the complexities of life while remaining true to her artistic vision. Her paintings, filled with passion and vitality, reflect her indomitable spirit and her profound connection to the world around her.

Conclusion

Joan Mitchell’s life and work embody the essence of Abstract Expressionism while transcending its boundaries. Her ability to merge the emotional and the lyrical, the abstract and the tangible, sets her apart as one of the most significant artists of her time. Through her paintings, she invites viewers to experience the world anew, to see beauty in chaos, and to find meaning in abstraction.

As a pioneer, a visionary, and a relentless creator, Joan Mitchell leaves a legacy that continues to resonate. Her art, imbued with life’s complexities and wonders, serves as a reminder of the power of creativity to transform and transcend. In celebrating Joan Mitchell, we celebrate not only an artist but also a profound witness to the human experience.

Artist Dogs:

Joan Mitchell had 13 dogs!

Georges du Soleil, a black poodle, was one of Joan Mitchell's beloved canine companions. Known for her deep affection for animals, Mitchell treasured Georges as a constant presence in her life during her years in France. While many of Mitchell's dogs were a source of companionship and emotional solace, Georges du Soleil stood out as a symbol of joy and loyalty.

The poodle's name, which translates to "George of the Sun," reflects Mitchell's characteristic whimsy and her poetic connection to the natural world. Georges frequently accompanied Mitchell in her daily routines, offering a grounding and comforting presence as she immersed herself in her creative endeavors. The dog's lively personality and elegance likely resonated with Mitchell's own artistic sensibilities, providing inspiration and a sense of equilibrium in her often intense and solitary artistic life.

Mitchell's love for Georges du Soleil was emblematic of her broader connection to her dogs, who were integral to her life and work. Georges, like her other pets, was more than just a companion; he was part of the vibrant, dynamic environment that nourished her creativity and her ability to channel emotion into her art.

The 9th Street Women is a compelling account of five groundbreaking female artists—Lee Krasner, Elaine de Kooning, Grace Hartigan, Joan Mitchell, and Helen Frankenthaler—who revolutionized the Abstract Expressionist movement in mid-20th-century America. Written by Mary Gabriel, the book explores their artistic triumphs and personal struggles within a male-dominated art world. These women defied societal norms, challenged traditional gender roles, and created groundbreaking work that reshaped modern art. Set against the vibrant backdrop of postwar New York, The 9th Street Women highlights their resilience, camaraderie, and enduring influence, offering a nuanced narrative of creativity, ambition, and the fight for artistic recognition.

Joan Mitchell's artworks are featured in numerous public collections worldwide. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York holds several of her pieces, including "Grandes Carrières" (1961–1962).Additionally, the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris includes works like "Cypress" (1980) and "River" (1989) in its collection. For a comprehensive list of institutions housing Mitchell's art, the Joan Mitchell Foundation provides a directory of public collections.

It's important to note that while these institutions possess significant holdings of Mitchell's work, the exact number of pieces in each collection may vary, and some works may not be on permanent display.

For those interested in viewing Mitchell's art, it's advisable to check with individual museums regarding the availability of her works for public viewing.

Four of Joan Mitchell's Abstract Masterpieces Sold for $45.2 Million at Sotheby's

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

'Valhalla' Collection of Green Abstract Fine Art Prints

“The hammer of the gods will drive our ships

to new lands to fight the horde,

sing and cry ‘Valhalla’, I am coming”

- Led Zepplin

Abstract Paintings primarily in lush greens by Canadian Artist Patti Friday

Prints Available Here

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

6 Ideas About Contemporary Painting

Contemporary painting refers to the art produced in the present time or recent past, reflecting current trends, styles, and cultural influences. It encompasses a wide range of approaches and techniques, often characterized by experimentation, individual expression, and a departure from traditional norms. Some common characteristics of contemporary painting include:

1. Diverse Styles: Contemporary painting encompasses a wide range of styles, from abstract and expressionist to figurative and conceptual. Artists often blend elements from different styles to create unique and innovative works.

2. Experimentation: Contemporary painters often explore new techniques, materials, and methods of expression. This can include mixed media, digital manipulation, or unconventional use of traditional mediums.

3. Individual Expression: Contemporary artists prioritize personal expression and creativity, often using their work to explore social, political, or emotional themes. Each artist brings their unique perspective and voice to their paintings.

4. Interdisciplinary Influences: Contemporary painting is influenced by various disciplines, including literature, music, film, and technology. Artists may draw inspiration from diverse sources and integrate them into their work.

5. Fluid Boundaries: There are no strict boundaries in contemporary painting, allowing artists to push the limits of what constitutes art. This can lead to interdisciplinary collaborations, installations, performance art, and other forms of artistic expression beyond traditional painting on canvas.

6. Engagement with Contemporary Issues: Many contemporary painters engage with current social, cultural, and political issues, using their art as a means of commentary or critique. This can involve exploring topics such as identity, globalization, environmentalism, or technology.

Overall, contemporary painting is characterized by its diversity, experimentation, and engagement with the contemporary world, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of art and society.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

Embassy of Ideas Questionnaire: Patricia Schwimmer

It's been a decade since my last interview with the incredibly talented and kind Patricia Schwimmer, an abstract artist and author whose work continues to mesmerize and inspire. During my most recent visit to her and her husband's home, I was once again struck by the warmth and creativity that define this dynamic duo.

Patricia Schwimmer has come a long way since our last encounter in 2013, and her artistic journey has seen remarkable growth and transformation. As we sat down for an update on her life and work, I was delighted to hear about her ever-evolving artistic exploration. Patricia's art has evolved into a fusion of abstract and expressionism, conveying profound emotions and narratives through her unique and vibrant compositions.

Walking through their new home was like stepping into a gallery of Patricia's life. Every room was adorned with her mesmerizing masterpieces, each telling a story and capturing a moment in time. Her use of color, texture, and form continues to be a testament to her innate talent and the tireless effort she invests in her craft.

But Patricia's talents extend far beyond the canvas. She has also taken her gift for storytelling & teaching and transformed it into the written word, becoming an accomplished author. Her book is a reflection of her profound insights and rich imagination, making her an artist both with her brush and with her pen.

Patricia's husband, a creative spirit in his own right, has been a pillar of support throughout her journey. Their genuine hospitality, evident in the sumptuous lunch they prepared for our visit, reflects the grace with which they navigate their artistic endeavors and their life together.

Patricia Schwimmer's decade-long journey is a testament to the unyielding dedication of a creative soul. Her art continues to evolve and inspire, while her warmth and generosity remain constants. It was a privilege to revisit this remarkable artist and author, and I eagerly await what the future holds for her boundless creativity.

 

DATE: October 1, 2023

NAME: PatriciaSchwimmer

OCCUPATION: Abstract Artist/Author

LOCATION: Collingwood, Ontario

 

As I stood in front of Patricia Schwimmer's newest works, I couldn't help but be overcome by a rush of emotions. Her abstracts, more exquisite and emotionally charged than ever, brought me to tears. Each piece was a symphony of color, form, and expression, resonating with a depth that touched the very core of my being.

The raw power of Patricia's art, as I observed it up close, was nothing short of breathtaking. Her brushstrokes seemed to dance on the canvas, capturing emotions and stories that words often fail to convey. It was as if each stroke revealed a hidden part of her soul, and in that moment, I felt a profound connection to her work.

These gorgeous masterpieces conveyed a myriad of emotions - from the joy and vibrancy of life to the deep well of human experiences. Patricia's use of color and texture created a visual language that transcended the boundaries of the abstract. The canvases seemed to be alive, pulsating with energy and spirit.

Tears welled up in my eyes, not from sadness, but from a profound sense of beauty and awe. Patricia's ability to create art that is both visually stunning and emotionally evocative is a rare gift. Her work is a testament to the power of abstract art to speak to the depths of the human soul, touching on emotions and experiences that are often difficult to articulate.

My emotional response to Patricia's latest creations only reinforced the fact that she is an artist of extraordinary talent and depth. Her art has the power to move, to inspire, and to connect with those who have the privilege of experiencing it. Patricia Schwimmer's work is a true testament to the enduring impact of abstract art on the human spirit.

And now.....

Here is our interview:

Hello Patricia!  

Tell us why you wanted to be part of the arts? 

Since I was a kid, I’ve been drawn to the visual arts. I don’t know if I can say why, it was an inner pull to create.

Tell us about your art? 

Over the last decade I’ve been focused on abstract painting, using acrylic paint, mixed media and collage. I start by activating the canvas with marks and lines, then create layers and layers of paint through the process of adding and editing out. It usually takes months to resolve a piece.

Where do you practice your art? 

I’ve always worked from home.

Why are the arts important to society? 

The arts inspire, uplift, and take us out of the mundane. When society gathers in communal art spaces it can cultivate a sense of community and inspire even more art. Participation in the arts enhances well being and builds confidence. I can’t imagine life without art.

Favorite art film? 

“Peggy Guggenheim: Art Addict.”

Favorite music? 

Light jazz, but not the chaotic kind.

Fiction or Non-Fiction? 

Both, really. I can get lost in a good story, and I also love artist’s biographies. Even if it is fiction, I look for books where the focus is art related.

Share 3 books you adore and why? 

(1) “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert has so many interesting stories woven into Gilbert’s years observing the workings of the creative process. 

(2) “Ninth Street Women” by Mary Gabriel describes an exciting era in the history of abstract expressionism and the five women who paved the way. 

(3) I was recently gifted the glorious volume “In/Form” by HollyAddi, over 400 pages of colour photographs of her work and process. It’s a visual feast.

Share 2 places you have lived that you loved and why?  

When I lived in Western New York it was known for its great restaurants, piano bars and live theatre venues, all at affordable prices. Buffalo is home to some pretty impressive architecture, and it’s a short drive to Niagara-On-The-Lake, and a daytrip to Toronto. Palm Beach County, FL, on the other hand, is another world; a tropical paradise that offers an embarrassment of riches. It boasts world class art galleries, Worth Avenue, fine dining, and historic landmarks. I’m glad I lived in these big cities when I was younger. It expanded my view of the world.

Where do you spend time on social media? 

I scroll through Instagram almost daily to look at art, but I’m one of those rare birds who doesn’t have a Facebook account.

What advice would you give anyone who wants a career in the arts? 

I’m a pretty practical person, so unless you have unlimited resources, there’s nothing wrong with having a day job so that you can create without the pressure of earning an income from your art. There are all sorts of ways to live an artistic life.

What makes you happy? 

I feel like happiness can be fleeting and temporary, and it is often dependent upon external circumstances. Contentment, on the other hand, is a longer lasting and deeper feeling, at least for me. Being in the creative flow brings on a sense of contentment. So does a walk in the woods.

If you weren’t in the arts, what would you do? 

I’ve had a few different careers over the years, but I’ve always had a keen interest in Interior Design.  I wanted to explore that after high school, but couldn’t find a program near home. Instead, I studied Business and Accounting and many years later got my MA in Psychology; but I still love to create beauty in my own surroundings.   

What is your greatest extravagance? 

I’ve been trying to come up with something extravagant but all I can remember are a few online classes I signed up for that were quite costly.  

Which living person do you most admire? 

Tough question. I’ll have to think about it.

Text, email, or phone call? 

Text for a quick hello, emails for gathering thoughts, and phone calls with a few friends who are willing to chat on the phone. An hour can fly by when discussing art, design, film and philosophy.

Which talent would you most like to have? 

Remember “Bewitched”? Wouldn’t it be awesome to have the ability to twitch your nose like that and materialize anything you want?

What or who is the greatest love of your life? 

My husband Michael. We’ve been through a lot together over the years.

What do you consider your greatest achievement so far? 

While in Florida I had quite a few art world highs. My work was chosen for The Designer Showhouse in West Palm, displayed at Art Palm Beach, and represented by three galleries over the six years I was there. It was chosen for a photo shoot by Palm Beach Illustrated, and sold on Perigold, a luxury online retailer. But none of these achievements supersede the elation I feel when someone reaches out to me to let me know how much my book, “The Healing Power of Collage” has helped them. I have had random voicemails, emails, and messages on Instagram from readers all over the world. For someone like me, who hopes to live a purposeful life, this is the best possible praise.

What’s next for you? 

I plan to return to a series of photographs where I discover abstract designs in nature and in my surroundings. I’d also like to do some more writing, take a few online classes, and create a series of works on paper influenced by greater simplicity.

What is your most treasured possession? 

My health.

Minimalist or Maximalist? 

Minimalist for sure. Clutter makes me anxious; and there is something so appealing about a few well curated objects thoughtfully placed in a space, a closet with breathing room, an uncluttered calendar with plenty of time to reflect.

What do you value most in your friends? 

Discretion, authenticity, empathy, depth, a sense of humour, warmth, intelligence, emotional maturity, honesty, and a genuine interest in keeping in touch. I guess I have a lot to say about that question, and I hope that I offer these same qualities to my circle of friends.

Who are your favorite Writers? 

I’ve been a reader all my life, so it’s hard to pick favorites, but I have read many of Margaret Atwood’s books, Anne Tyler, Eckhart Tolle, Anna Quindlen, Don Miguel Ruiz, Carolyn Myss, Gary Zukav, poems by Mary Oliver, Rumi, and on and on….

Top 3 films? 

“Love Actually,” “American Beauty,” and “Legally Blonde.” There are so many great films. These three just come to mind quickly.

Favorite live arts performance? 

I love live theatre and a classical ballet performance (not modern ballet, but something along the lines of Swan Lake.) I want to be transported by the sure-footed elegance of the dancers in their enchanting costumery.

Favorite public art? 

David Chihuly’s glass sculptures at Fairchild Tropical Gardens in Coral Gables, FL. Seeing his work nestled among 83 acres of tropical foliage and water features was an unforgettable experience. When he had another exhibit there years later, I had to return.

Favorite museum? 

The museum I spent the most time in was The Albright Knox in Buffalo,NY, before the expansion. It houses some of the greatest works of art from the abstract expressionist movement, and it once had a lovely restaurant overlooking a sculpture garden. A glass of white wine, and the niçoise salad made for the perfect way to spend an afternoon, after strolling through the art!

Favorite art gallery? 

Addison Gallery in Delray Beach, FL. I’d wander around in there in my paint splattered clothes after an art class at Old School Square.

Favorite performing arts centre? 

Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. It first opened in 1926 and its French Baroque architecture is the crown jewel of the theatre district.

Most used app? 

It’s a toss up between Instagram and Pinterest.

What is your motto? 

Be kind. You never know what someone is going through.

Describe your personal fashion style? 

Well, country life has simplified my personal wardrobe, but I love the classic elegance of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. It never goes out of style.

Favorite Actor? 

So many…. But Helen Mirren and Emma Thompson come to mind right away.

Favorite Photographer? 

I don’t have a favorite photographer, but a way of photographing known as Miksang (clear seeing.) It’s a contemplative form of photography that focuses on close observation.

Do you believe in aliens? 

Yes, and I wish they’d help us get out of the mess we’ve made.

Coffee or Tea? 

A coffee in the morning, then mint tea in the day.

Who is your hero? 

I’m not much of a hero worshipper, but I admire everyday people doing good in big and little ways. It is going on everywhere, yet the media often choses to ignore it in favor of more sensational stories.

Share 3 people you follow on Instagram? 

Robert Szot, William McClure, Holly Addi.

Who are your 3 favorite Artists? 

Theresa Girard, Madeline Denaro, Hyunmee Lee. It is hard to pick “favorites,” but I consistently love the work of these three women.

Beach, river, ocean, pond or pool? 

A private, freshwater pool in a beautiful setting. (I think my answer would have been different a decade or so ago, when our rivers and beaches were cleaner.)

Favorite colour? 

All things turquoise and blue.

Favorite number? 

333 represents my connection to Divine Spirit.

What kind of birthday cake would you ask for? 

Gluten free vanilla cupcake with lots of icing.

Name 10 people who you’d love to invite to a dinner party and why? 

Since the pandemic my priorities have changed. There is nothing I’d like better than to be in a room with my husband and ten of our closest friends. When living in WNY, we had a monthly salon, where eight of us gathered around the table for good food and conversation. Each person would bring something that inspired them to discuss with the group. Among us were authors, a poet, artists, an architect, and an interior designer. As you can well imagine the evening really charged by batteries. I miss that time.

Thank you so much Patricia!

Find Patricia:

Website

Instagram

Book

 

COPYRIGHT 2007-2023 Patti Friday b.1959.