“Mr. Mitchell is a virtual modern-day Vermeer of ordinary black people given dignity through the eloquence of his concentration and touch,” wrote The New York Times’ Michael Kimmelman. “Mr. Mitchell's works are subtly tuned character studies with an eye toward abstract form and charismatic light.”

“Eloquence of concentration and touch” expresses perfectly the entire scope of Dean Mitchell’s work. He can divine in a landscape a setting’s soul as clearly as he portrays the depths of human spirit. He is able to uncover in any subject he addresses a central sense of faith, trust and perseverance.

“I was raised in the church,” explains Dean Mitchell. “The church has always been an important symbol, not only for me, but for the community. It represents our brightest hopes and highest aspirations. Many of our most important leaders have come from the church. It was here that the civil rights movement began and was organized. It is a place we’ve always looked toward to bring us through hard times”

“I lived in Kansas quite a while and that gave me the opportunity to spend a lot of time in St. Louis. I had a number of original shows there. I came across this scene one spring trip to that city. This striking tree in full blossom, positioned as it was near the church, captured the sense of potential and renewal we all wish and hope our biggest cities. There is a particular ‘light’ to the piece that I really enjoy.”