Date: 13th August 2026, Lots 1-500, 10 am start
Date: 14th August 2026, Lots 501-1000, 10 am start
Mitchell's work exists on the edge of language' - David Ross, London, 2011
John Mitchell was a highly respected artist, sculptor and tutor, with much of his work abstract and based on proportional systems, with geometrics and the Fibonacci series being consistent motifs found within his work. Cornish-based yet with an international following, he honed his craft in his idyllic home and studio with views over Newlyn Harbour.
During the 1960's, Mitchell began to use the Fibonacci sequence to influence his work with bulk colours, often dried pigments, filling precisely measured voids with such vibrancies as cobalt blue, red ochre, indigo and burnt sienna. A passage from Samuel Beckett's Molloy, 'I had four ways of wearing my shirt...' added inspiration, encouraging Mitchell to play with similar motifs whilst developing as many variations as possible, which is evident within his 'Frustum and Fillers' series, with multiple variations of paintings and sculpture in both wood and bronze.
This sale showcases a lifetime of Mitchell’s work. It unites the worlds of mathematics and art, exploring a language without words. Lay’s are proud to bring this artist's work back into the public realm for fresh eyes to enjoy once more.
Collection appointments available to book from Monday 24th to Friday 28th August 2026
Please note: This auction (including viewing & collections) takes place at our Penzance saleroom.