Growing up on a farm in the rolling hills of Tennessee's Upper Cumberland Region, Mitchell spent most of his time outdoors exploring the fields, valleys, creeks, and lakes that would fuel much of his creativity for many years.

 

Mitchell began his study of painting in high school, and pursued a degree in art education at Tennessee Technological University with an emphasis in oil painting under the instruction of Christine Koczwara. He has served as a faculty member in the Fine Arts Department of Cookeville High School for many years, and was a co-proprietor of The Clark House in Livingston, Tennessee. 

 

Much of his inspiration comes from the landscape in and around the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. The unique topography of the area, the meandering streams and creeks, the open spaces contrasted by dense undergrowth and thick forests, and the light is endlessly fascinating as subject matter.  

 

Mitchell particularly enjoys depicting the older homes, buildings and landscapes surrounding Livingston, Tennessee.