DALLAS — Charles Dee Mitchell, a leading figure in the Dallas art scene, passed away Friday at the age of 74.
Known for his roles as critic, curator, collector, and patron, Mitchell played a key part in shaping the city’s artistic culture.
After earning a theater degree from SMU and teaching briefly at Greenhill School, Mitchell spent time in New York before joining Half-Price Books in 1972, eventually becoming chief buyer. Following early retirement, he devoted his energy to advancing the visual arts in North Texas.
Mitchell’s critical voice appeared in Artforum, Art in America, and other publications, helping elevate Dallas artists to national attention. He also led Wordspace from 2010 to 2018, fostering a “literary renaissance” in the city.
An astute collector, Mitchell’s Bermuda Street home, designed by Ron Wommack, showcased his carefully curated works, including conflict photography. He championed local artists such as Ludwig Schwarz and Jesse Morgan Barnett, offering his home as an exhibition space and setting high standards for creative rigor.
Mitchell’s legacy endures through his contributions as a critic, curator, and supporter of Dallas’s artistic community, leaving a profound mark on the cultural landscape of the region.