Ep 1. London

Portrait Artist of The Year season 2 episode 1, named London, is an exciting and intense art competition that brings together talented artists from all across the UK. The first episode takes place in the vibrant city of London, where the contestants are challenged to create a portrait of one of three celebrity sitters: actor Tom Courtenay, classical musician Nicola Benedetti, and artist and fashion icon Grayson Perry.

The show is hosted by comedian Frank Skinner and art historian Kate Bryan. Both are passionate about art and provide insightful commentary throughout the episode, sharing their opinions and observations about the contestants' work. Each episode also features a guest judge with expertise in the field of art, who provides additional guidance and feedback to the artists.

The format of the show is simple but intense. The contestants are given four hours to create their portrait while being observed by a live audience. The audience members are encouraged to walk around the studio, observe the artists at work, and ask them questions about their process and techniques. The artists also have to contend with the presence of the cameras, which capture every brushstroke and facial expression.

The show is a great showcase of the diverse styles and approaches that artists can take when creating a portrait. Some artists choose a realistic approach, working meticulously to capture every detail of their sitter's face. Others opt for a more impressionistic style, using bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors to create a more expressive and emotional portrait.

As the clock ticks down, the tension in the studio builds, and the artists scramble to put the finishing touches on their portraits. The finished pieces are then judged by the guest judge and the two regular judges, who provide feedback on each portrait and ultimately select one artist to move on to the next round of the competition.

Overall, Portrait Artist of The Year season 2 episode 1 is a thrilling and inspiring look at the world of portrait art. From the beautiful and intricate details of each portrait to the fast-paced energy of the competition, this episode is a must-see for anyone who appreciates art or enjoys watching talented artists at work.