Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Year Returns for Glorious 10th Series
Sky Arts is cranking up for a major art bash this autumn as Portrait Artist of the Year storms back for its milestone tenth series on October 4, 2023. This season promises bigger thrills with star-studded celebs and a jaw-dropping world record attempt.
Legendary Faces and a Decade Special
Hosted by the iconic Dame Joan Bakewell alongside Stephen Mangan, the series kicks off with a special “Portrait Artist of the Decade” episode. Past winners will unite at Battersea Arts Centre to paint the legendary Dame Judi Dench. This 90-minute special not only salutes Dame Judi but also revisits the talents and journeys of former champions.
World Record Attempt Featuring Sir Lenny Henry
Paintbrushes at the ready! On September 30, Sky Arts will try to smash the GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for the most people painting simultaneously, both online and in one venue at London’s Lindley Hall.
- Star of the day: Sir Lenny Henry will be the subject for this historic effort.
- 200 free spots open for amateur and pro artists to join in person.
- Live streaming lets fans worldwide join the record-breaking portrait party.
Sir Lenny Henry said, “I loved sitting for Portrait Artist of the Year in 2022, and it was a real honour to take part. This year is a little different, but no less momentous. I’m so grateful for the chance to be invited back to play my part in what will hopefully be a new world record for the history books!”
Celebrity Sitters and Huge Prize Up for Grabs
The 2023 contestants will paint a glittering guest list including:
- Emma Freud, Richard Curtis, Fleur East
- Ainsley Harriott, Rory Stewart, Rob Delaney
- Susanna Reid, Sue Barker, Shirley Ballas
- Nigel Havers, Joe Sugg and many more.
Winners from each heat will face British pop icon Emma Bunton in the semi-finals. The final showdown? Painting none other than Dame Joan Bakewell herself.
The grand prize? A £10,000 commission to paint the world-renowned conservationist Dr. Dame Jane Morris Goodall DBE. The winning masterpiece will hang proudly at the National Portrait Gallery this December.
Phil Edgar-Jones, Sky Arts Director, praised the show’s impact: “Portrait Artist of the Year has become the UK’s top painting prize over ten years. Talented artists from the show have gone on to glittering careers, and with famous faces captured on canvas, it’s a true jewel in the Sky Arts crown.”
As it celebrates a decade of creativity, Portrait Artist of the Year remains a beacon of talent, inspiring artists and celebs alike across the nation.
