Sheila Mitchell
Born
Sheila Mitchell was born in 1926 in Farnham, Surrey.
Early Life
She showed early artistic talent, exhibiting at the Royal Academy in 1945 at the age of 18.
Education
Mitchell studied at the Farnham School of Art under Charles Vyse, before moving to the Guildford School of Art where she studied under Willi Soukop. She later attended the Royal College of Art (1948–51), studying under John Skeaping, Frank Dobson, and Edward Folkard. Her training was grounded in the figurative tradition of the New Sculpture, while also being exposed to more profound sculpting, associated with Henry Moore and Jacob Epstein.
Career
Over a career spanning more than 60 years, Mitchell played a significant role in preserving the figurative tradition of British sculpture. She exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and became closely associated with the Society of Portrait Sculptors, showing with them almost annually from 1964 until 1984, and again after its revival in 1996. She served as President of the Society of Portrait Sculptors from 1978 to 1983 and was a fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors.
Mitchell produced over 150 portrait sculptures, including notable commissions such as a bust of Sir George Edwards for British Aerospace and portraits of figures including the Duchess of Kent, Sebastian Coe, Sir Edward Tuckwell, and Sir Frederick Wood. In addition to portraiture, she undertook monumental commissions in Mallorca and the United Kingdom, including a pietà for Wintershall Chapel. She also created smaller bronzes and ceramic figures, and collaborated with her husband, painter Charles Bone, on exhibitions and conservation projects.
Materials
Primarily bronze, as well as ceramic works.
Style & Subject
Mitchell’s work is rooted in the figurative tradition, with a strong emphasis on portraiture. She varied surface treatments to reflect the character of her sitters. Recurring themes in her work include the Mother and Child, explored in both intimate and monumental compositions.
Awards & Exhibitions
Exhibited at the Royal Academy from an early age and throughout her career. Regular exhibitor with the Society of Portrait Sculptors, including participation in its annual exhibitions. Also participated in joint exhibitions in Europe and the United States.
Sheila Mitchell sculptures are available from the sculpture park.
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Bronze Resin £3,799 inc VATLifesize Bronze Resin Figurative Sculpture – Young Girl by Sheila Mitchell (Edition of 5)
Young Girl by Sheila Mitchell, Bronze Resin