Go back

Episode 1

Episode 1

Episode number: 1

Overview: Frank Skinner and Joan Bakewell begin their hunt for the Portrait Artist of the Year. Heat one sees artists paint sitters Sol Campbell, John Humphrys and Maisie Williams against the clock.

Episode 2

Episode 2

Episode number: 2

Overview: More artists put their nerves and artistic flair to the test as they paint celebrities Julian Fellowes, Ronni Ancona and Helena Kennedy QC in Edinburgh. With Frank Skinner and Joan Bakewell.

Episode 3

Episode 3

Episode number: 3

Overview: Artists in Scotland paint Gary Kemp, Daniela Nardini and Ashley Jensen. An incredibly close heat means there's a twist in store. With Frank Skinner and Joan Bakewell.

Episode 4

Episode 4

Episode number: 4

Overview: Frank Skinner, Joan Bakewell and the judges move the competition to Wales, where 12 gifted artists get just four hours to paint celebrities Non Evans Ade Adepitan and Greg Davies.

Episode 5

Episode 5

Episode number: 5

Overview: In London, 12 artists attempt to impress the judges by capturing celebrities including Jilly Cooper and Daniel Roche. One contestant uses tapestry to depict Melvyn Bragg.

Episode 6

Episode 6

Episode number: 6

Overview: Artists vie for the final place in the semi-final by painting Sharon Corr, The Divine Comedy's Neil Hannon and actor Colm Meaney in Dublin. With Frank Skinner and Joan Bakewell.

Episode 7

Episode 7

Episode number: 7

Overview: The seven semi-finalists battle for a place in the final by painting a double portrait of Richard Dawkins and Sally Hitchiner. With Joan Bakewell and Frank Skinner.

Episode 8

Episode 8

Episode number: 8

Overview: It's crunch time as the three finalists get four nerve-wracking hours to paint The Hobbit actor Sir Ian McKellen. Who will the judges crown the competition winner?

Painting Alan Cumming

Painting Alan Cumming

Episode number: 9

Overview: Join the 2014 winner as they plan, paint and unveil their £10,000 commission to paint actor Alan Cumming for the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.