Martha Mitchell is an accomplished artist, based in Studio 10 at Whangarei’s Quarry Arts Centre. Formally trained, Martha gained a BA majoring in Fine Art, followed by a post-graduate diploma in education. During her career, Martha has taught art at secondary schools for a number of years. Martha’s works can be found in private collections, and she has exhibited around the country and has twice been a finalist in the Adam Portrait Award, as well as a finalist in the Molly Morpeth Canaday Award and more recently, the Parkin Drawing Prize.
Martha works in many mediums, including pastel, charcoal, ink and mixed-media, although the qualities of oil on canvas make it her principal medium. The subject matter of Martha’s work is mainly figurative and portraiture, although her interpretation of the subjects that she renders results in many layers of meaning that resonates with the viewer, and leaves room for deeply personal interpretation.
Martha seeks to paint meaningful and personal paintings, often using symbolism, representing underlying themes or characteristics, and is drawn to and inspired by artists who tell stories through their art. This is evidenced in her portraits that show more than a likeness of the subject. They reveal something of the sitter’s character and their story. The series of paintings ‘Hands and Water’ explore the concept of water as a symbol of life that cannot be held onto, and needs to flow to maintain its vitality and pass on the purity to future generations as a sacred gift.
In her own words, “Art is a never-ending learning experience that keeps offering new and exciting challenges as I grow.”
If you are interested in any of Martha’s paintings or would like to commission a painting or portrait, please email marthamitchellnz@gmail.com or leave your details on the contact page.
Martha works in many mediums, including pastel, charcoal, ink and mixed-media, although the qualities of oil on canvas make it her principal medium. The subject matter of Martha’s work is mainly figurative and portraiture, although her interpretation of the subjects that she renders results in many layers of meaning that resonates with the viewer, and leaves room for deeply personal interpretation.
Martha seeks to paint meaningful and personal paintings, often using symbolism, representing underlying themes or characteristics, and is drawn to and inspired by artists who tell stories through their art. This is evidenced in her portraits that show more than a likeness of the subject. They reveal something of the sitter’s character and their story. The series of paintings ‘Hands and Water’ explore the concept of water as a symbol of life that cannot be held onto, and needs to flow to maintain its vitality and pass on the purity to future generations as a sacred gift.
In her own words, “Art is a never-ending learning experience that keeps offering new and exciting challenges as I grow.”
If you are interested in any of Martha’s paintings or would like to commission a painting or portrait, please email marthamitchellnz@gmail.com or leave your details on the contact page.
