VICTORIA MITCHELL

I was born in 1971 and raised in Vancouver BC. As a quiet child, I found a comfortable way to relate with subjects and adults through art. I was consequently given opportunities to attend workshops and receive private instruction from local teachers and career artists. Formal studies of technique began with classical still life in oil paint. Next I explored materials in a less structured way, to incorporate anatomical movement and free expression in charcoal and other media. Over time I found my own balance between realism and the abstract.

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I was also strongly encouraged by secondary school art teacher Robert Crumlin, who with formal discipline helped refine my skills and understanding of materials. He encouraged submissions to exhibitions, which received awards including:

1987 Emily Carr BC Young Artists award, with the piece exhibited at the Vancouver Art Gallery, and toured through BC and Seattle. The1988 Art’s Fair first place two dimensional award and exhibition at the Robson Square Media Centre. Also awarded in 1988, an Arts Umbrella Multi-Media Workshop Scholarship. In 1989, a medical illustration award, with work displayed by the Medical Research Council of Canada. 

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From my twenties, creative projects included commission paintings and illustrations, while I predominantly focussed on a 22 year career as a Registered Massage Therapist. The creation of a home art studio broadened and enriched explorations in abstract and representational painting, and I began showing these paintings in 2017. This was a tremendously important step to not conceal, but rather to develop creative expressions…and share these experiences with others.

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Earlier formal teachings stressing the critical importance of technique, material & realism were good foundations for artistic endeavours. However, venturing from literal points of reference has been most important in discovering broader emotional and visceral impacts. As much as I am inspired by intricacies of the body, I am also very much influenced by other natural elements, flora and landscapes globally, and environmental sensitivities.

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In painting I typically sits down to a blank canvas with intentional presence and a clear mind, which allows a spontaneous flow of line and colour to lead the way. Other times, curious and intriguing visions emerge which I sketch or explores further through painting. The process led by prevailing subconscious adaptations, are some of my most meditative, peaceful & content places to be in solitary time. This is so important in my life, and wonderful to share with others who see into what has emerged. Since 2017 I have been fortunate to share my artwork in galleries and exhibitions in Vancouver, around BC, and internationally. It has been a great pleasure to broaden communications in a variety of ways, with those who connect with what I create.