Billy Mitchell
William “Billy” Mitchell has been an avid photographer since he was given his first camera at age seven. A native of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Billy graduated from the Learning Prep School in 2017. The first formal showing of his photographs was at Cambridge Open Studios in 2019.
Born with Fragile X syndrome, Billy’s communication skills were initially limited, but through his photography he could share both his incredible perceptive skills and his extraordinary eye for detail. This early talent has grown as he has matured over the years and he continues to refine and expand his work.
Billy is fascinated by texture and details, particularly of flowers, plants and objects, but he is also captivated by landscapes and the changing light of sunsets. Many of his photographs depict the details of everyday life that others might miss. This has been poignantly captured in a series of recent photos taken during the pandemic — where he has photographed the brilliant details of flowers and objects, seeing the beauty through the chaos of these times.
All of Billy’s photographs are taken on his iPhone and, remarkably, almost always are captured in a single frame.
Q&A
When did art become a pursuit? When I was 11.
Are you self-taught or formally educated in visual art? I am self-taught.
How did you first become involved with CAA? The 2019 Open Studios.
How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughoWhat is your creative process? Where are you finding ideas for your art these days? I find ideas everywhere from flower boxes to ice cubes in a glass.
How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughout your work? Whatever is interesting to me.
In your opinion, what’s your best/favorite piece you’ve made? I don’t have a favorite.
Do you own any art by other artists? Is so, what artists? A photo by Liz Deschenes and a photo by underwater photographer, Brian Skerry.
Do you have any shows coming up? No, but I hope to real soon.
See more from Billy
Instagram: @billymitchellphotos
Website: williammitchellphotography.com