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Denis Mitchell

'Menah'
1968
gesso prepared board w/ wash & incision
18 x 4 ins (45.7 x 10.2 cms)

signed & dated 1968

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Mitchell's implicit understanding of the balance of line and form created by
the interplay of light and surface imbues both his abstract sculptures and
compositions with a unique vitality. Although primarily a sculptor, he
successfully translated the textural and tactile qualities of wood and stone
onto a two dimensional surface without compromising the delicate balance of
the opposing elements that so influenced him whilst in Cornwall. Ben
Nicholson was to have a lasting and important effect on Mitchell's work
evident in Menah.

To work and be friends with two such professional artists as Ben Nicholson
and Barbara Hepworth was an education in itself. Ben I admired as a very
great artist and his white reliefs are to me the final statement in inspired
simplicity and I am always grateful for the help he gave me in many ways.

Menah is a large stone worshiped by certain Middle Eastern tribes and
brought from Mecca by travellers who wished to carry with them some memento
of the Holy Land.

Exhibited:

Denis Mitchell Exhibition, Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Arts Council of
Britain, illustrated drawings no.5, 1968

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