Sky Arts’ flagship show Portrait Artist of the Year — and its sister show Landscape Artist of the Year — have been thrilling audiences and artists alike over the past 10 years.
Through several rounds of competition, professional and amateur artists are challenged to produce a portrait of one of three famous sitters. The winning artist of each round, selected by three judges, advances to the semi-final and then to the final, with the winner receiving a cash commission to paint a famous personality and for the picture to become part of a national collection.
This year’s series began with a special Portrait Artist of the Decade episode, which saw the winners of past series of Portrait Artist of the Year return once more to paint iconic actress, Dame Judi Dench.
However, when the show was commissioned, it was not considered a sure-fire hit – and the art establishment was sceptical. But the programme makers followed a mission to democratise art.
After a decade of turning easels, we bring together the commissioner and creators of this much-loved show. We’ll learn what makes the show special, how it’s produced, its impact in the art world and beyond, and what lessons there are for other producers in creating a successful format.
Join RTS London for this in-person event. Tickets include a complimentary glass of wine over which to continue the discussion in the bar afterward.
Chair:
Stuart Prebble, Author, Executive Producer & Founding Director, Storyvault Films
Panel:
Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, Director of Sky Arts and Entertainment, Sky UK
Danielle Graham, Executive Producer & Director, Storyvault Films
Sam Richards, Executive Producer & Director, Storyvault Films
Nelda Sale, Series Editor, Portrait Artist of the Year
Producer: Phil Barnes
Venue:
Screen 2
Everyman Kings Cross
4-18 Handyside Street
London N1C 4DN
Public transport:
BY TUBE
King's Cross St Pancras (Victoria, Piccadilly, Northern, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan and Circle Lines)
BY NATIONAL RAIL
King's Cross Station and St Pancras Station
BY BUS
Bus 390 stops at Randell's Road
Parking:
There is no parking provided on site, however there is public parking in the vicinity. The nearest pay car parks are St. Pancras Station Car Park and King's Cross Station Car Park.
