Mitchell's experience as a technical assistant to wood sculptor J.B Blunk in Inverness between 1969 and 1977 was pivotal in determining Mitchell's path as a sculptor in wood.  Since 1977 he has taught himself wood turning with the addition of attending several invitational natural wood turning symposia.  Initially he participated as a student.  Later he was invited to return as an instructor.  

Museums including Mitchell's efforts in their permanent collections include:  Renwick Gallery (Smithsonian); Detroit Institute of Arts; Yale University Art Museum; High Museum of Art; Oakland Museum of Art and the Wood Turning Center in Philadelphia.

Three pages referencing Mitchell wood turning expressions appear in the hard-bound publication chronicling the most significant collection of wood turned bowls of the late 20th century, Edward Jacobson's The Art of Turned-Wood Bowls A Gallery of Contemporary Masters--and More.