Born and educated In New Zealand, Elizabeth Mitchell travelled the world, becoming a U.S. citizen in 1999. She currently paints and teaches her “happy medium” — silk painting — at her studio in South Seminole Heights, Tampa.
Her art career began with a successful exhibition of silk paintings in New Zealand, leading to life as a self supporting artist. Elizabeth has travelled the globe and pursued an independent, professional art career for more than 25 years. After three years in Key West, she moved to Ybor City. Her art work can be seen at Clay Paper Gallery in Dunedin and Baisden Gallery in Tampa.
Mitchell also offers a “JumpStartYourArt” course to get you going in your art life. Students are guided to paint their own silk scarf or picture, and can learn the whole process if they choose.
“I am a self taught artist, a ‘primitive’ in a sophisticated world,” Mitchell says. “My art work is a lyrical, symbolic narrative. Spontaneity, freedom and richness of color are characteristic of my work. I am inspired by nature, I delight in color. The luster of silk, its receptivity to the dyes, and the immediacy of the silk painting technique please me greatly. I find great joy in encouraging others to venture forth on this most human of activities — art making.”
Above: Elizabeth Mitchell’s Hue Koi, painted with ColorHue dyes which set instantly on the fabric.