Ep 1. Episode 1

In this first episode of Portrait Artist of The Year season 3, viewers are introduced to a whole new crop of talented artists vying for the title of Portrait Artist of The Year. The show is set in an expansive studio adorned with a plethora of colorful paints, brushes, and canvases, and is hosted by Stephen Mangan and Joan Bakewell.

The contestants, who are all amateur and professional artists from various parts of the United Kingdom, gather around the studio, eagerly awaiting their turn to showcase their skills as portrait artists. The challenge they are given for this episode is to create a portrait of a well-known public figure.

The contestants have a limited amount of time to paint their portraits before their final creations are judged by a panel of renowned critics, including artist Tai-Shan Schierenberg, curator Kathleen Soriano, and art historian Kate Bryan. Each judge has a unique perspective on the art of portrait painting, and their feedback is critical in determining which contestant has the potential to win the title of Portrait Artist of The Year.

The artists then begin the intense process of painting their chosen subjects, each one showcasing their own unique style. Some choose to paint using bold, powerful strokes, while others opt for a more delicate approach, using intricate detail to bring their subjects to life. Each artist approaches the challenge in their own way, demonstrating their distinctive artistic flair and skill.

The judges circulate throughout the studio, talking to the artists as they work and offering words of encouragement and critique. The contestants seem to be both inspired and intimidated by the judges' presence, all the while remaining focused on the task at hand.

As the clock ticks down, the contestants put the finishing touches on their portraits, adding depth, shadow, and texture to bring their subjects to life. The reveal moment is intense, as each contestant presents their work to the judges and the studio audience. The judges inspect the artworks, scrutinizing every detail, before sharing their thoughts on each piece.

Despite the pressure and the time constraints, the contestants manage to create some truly stunning works of art, each one a testament to their artistic vision, technical skill, and dedication to their craft. The judges have the tough job of singling out just one artist to move forward to the next round, a decision that is sure to be both difficult and agonizing.

Overall, the first episode of Portrait Artist of The Year season 3 is a captivating exploration of the art of portrait painting, showcasing the talent and creativity of some of the UK's most promising amateur and professional artists. With each episode promising new and exciting challenges, more tension, and more drama, it's no wonder why this show has become a fan favorite.