Gordon Mitchell

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Your time at the University

Edinburgh College of Art was my only choice. I was homeless at the time and had a few friends in my home city with whom I could stay. Becoming a father, at the end of my 2nd year, made me grow up and hard work, determination and imagination got me through.

I received a little grant (£48 per annum) and needed various part-time jobs to get by, including: office cleaner, bus conductor, forklift driver and I even learned to crochet women’s hats.

From year one I won numerous prizes and awards, most notable and rewarding was the Royal Scottish Academy student prize. I also undertook mural commissions in the summer to sustain my small family (lots of work for little reward). I was awarded a Post-diploma year and afterwards a travelling scholarship, which I spent in Ireland.

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

After college I attended Moray House for a year. I taught for 2 years in Dunfermline, then returned to Edinburgh to take up a part-time teaching post, eventually becoming deputy head of a private school until 1989, when I gave up teaching to paint full time.

I received a little grant (£48 per annum) and needed various part-time jobs to get by, including: office cleaner, bus conductor, forklift driver and I even learned to crochet women’s hats.

Gordon Mitchell

Fortunately, I don’t sleep much and have always had a committed work ethic.

I became President of the SAAC (VAS), was elected to the RGI where I was convenor for 6 years. I am also a member of the RSW and the RSA, and have served as Vice-President to both. I am President of SABA and have been President of the Scottish Arts Club.

I work towards one large exhibition per year (60 works), alternatively, The Portland Gallery in London and the Roger Billcliffe Gallery in Glasgow, together with other small commitments.

Alumni wisdom

Think lucky, take risks, stick to your beliefs, take criticism and praise with a pinch of salt and above all keep your sense of humour.