Description

This is the story of William Mitchell's life, his career and his body of work from hospital at an early age to a life of art with commissions offered 80 years later. It describes gaining commissions, experiments with materials and methods and his determination to produce magnificent works of art.

He was a consultant with London County Council and given free rein, as long as the cost was no more than the original specified treatment which was usually a coat of paint! Bill's experimentation resulted in a vast array of new and innovative finishes which was highlighted in an exhibition by the LCC. This led to work with famous architects of the day such as Basil Spence and Sir Freddie Gibberd who designed the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King where Bill created the famous bronze sculpted doors and designed the Portland Stone frontispiece. He has had a total of nine works of art listed Grade II by English Heritage, more than any other artist.

William designed the Egyptian Hall and Escalator at Harrods for Mohamed Al Fayed which were a phenomenal success. Self Portrait contains a vast array of illustrations of his work and in so doing reveals the man - a true creative genius who invariably had a smile or comic story to offer, and whose energy carried projects to completion despite the many challenges. It's a brilliant and inspiring story.