@AriaMaryam. Yes, I too loved her paintings, she really is very talented, but, Christian Hook had that something that made his paintings more original, starting with his self portrait. Infact he went on to do some brilliant work. P.S. This is my favourite episode of all time because of the presence of Ian McKellen...he was adorable - and an incredible sitter.
I am going to eat my previous words. I couldn't understand why they kept Laura on but her painting of the opera singer was phenomenal! I was blown away. I liked all the paintings this week, but Christian has the edge in that he presents a more finished work in 4 hours than the others, but given time they are all extremely capable and gifted artists. I'm glad I got to see what Laura could do given time.
Great insights. I totally agree. Until the stunning commission work by Laura, I did not like her work . They are all outstanding but Christians is also cool.
I do like her painting style but she painted them too old. You could see it bothered her. She looks younger in the video than in the painting. Some artist loves painting those wrinkles.
@@annalisasteinnes yes it was ,looked very much like a gallery piece ,but I don’t think it’s what these judges are looking for ,they look for a smushed look ,
@@sandraford4235 That's a matter of taste. Art is subjective. Many clients, when commissioning a portrait, WANT it to be precise and an excellent likeness. I thought it was masterfully done!
@@gloriapinskerportraits4801 I agree the portrait was stunning,but I was just saying those judges don’t go for that kind of stunning ,they’ve picked some very odd paintings in the past ,
When Cecily said she didn't want to look at her portrait ...because she is old...I cried. I feel the same way...but I am glad she looked at it and we cant help how we age. It is as much a part of life as is going through puberty...And what a wonderful painting..Annya's best I think. And Laura...wow has she not come a looooong way from painting animals. Just watching her in this series has been amazing. That portrait is almost like a photograph. The softness of the skin. You just want to touch the painting. 💛And of course Christian...whom everyone said it is easy for him...I think that was a point against him and it shouldn't have been. He was more advanced as an artist. But he deserved all the accolades. When he added the little hand in the boxers hand...well that was brilliant.
The only true portrait here painted from life...wonder if McKellen was wondering why he was even sitting for the other two, who could have downloaded a photo from the internet if they were just going to paint from a screen
I've been a professional artist and curator for decades, to this day I still whence when I hear spectators attempting to talk about artists' works in a gallery. Listening to gallery visitors' obnoxious comments reminds me why I often leave the gallery area for my shows to get away from the trifling comments. Why is the final prize only $10,000? This should have easily been $25,000. There should always be a 2nd and 3rd prize even if significantly smaller. It should have been $25,000, $10,000 and $5,000 plus whatever other perks.
You sound rather elitist and part of the problem the art world has with engaging new comers. Let them spectate, let them say trifling words, it harms no one, on the contrary it increases engagement for those who aren’t swimming in art everyday. As for the cash prize, I agree with you.
What about the judge’s critiques? Do you agree with them? My issue is when they interrupt the artists and say inane comments. Especially the woman with the insane grinning. 😬
@@dw309 I'm a Black woman, Mother professional artist and independent curator living in the US south, there's no elitism here! As a veteran-artist I get to comment on the naive and trifling comments of spectators. I have been doing this long enough to know when I hear spectators who are posers or think they know what the artist intended. Just ask the artist! That's also what gallery/artist talks are for... I'm not opposed to engaging with an audience if they are sincere, genuinely curious or when it's a great teachable moment. Then again the people who look like me rarely act like that and I'm not in the UK -- the seat of elitism. Yes, those comments can "hurt" something, they can perpetuate stereotypes, mis information and/or misunderstandings about the work, artist, subject matter or negatively impact their future art museum/gallery experiences; especially if they're just wrong or don't have enough information. You do know most artists (especially emerging ones) are apprehensive about being at their own receptions for this very reason, that's where gallerists, curators and agents come in. You know no anything about me. Trust if I was being elitist you would have felt it to your bones. NEXT!
These three were probably my favorite grouping. There was no clear winner, everyone deserving…they were all so talented and creative. I would have been happy with anyone…they all deserved to win, but like the judges…Christian was my favorite…he got his “hook” in me from his submission.
Without any spoilers, let's just say I was blown away every time I saw this artist's work--the recognition factor required of portraiture combined with the gorgeous manipulation of paint itself is electrifying. I quite agreed with the judges' final decision, as much as I liked the work by the others. There was no way to choose badly, except by having to leave two out.
I started watching the first episode and couldn’t stop. I watched from episodes 1-8 and loved them all. All of last three commissions were beautiful. Wow, I’ve been thoroughly motivated to pick up the pencils and brushes again. At 62, I believe I still have time to get started. Lol They’re such outstanding artists and the show was really quite entertaining. ❤️
Congratulations to Christian! All his paintings are unified in his personal style which I believe is quite recognizable. Even though he was not a judge I believe Ian's decision in choosing Laura's painting says alot and I believe she should have been the winner because her commissioned portrait shows she can paint in a very realistic style in the manner of famous portrait artists as John Singer Sargent and the painting of Ian was excellent in showing the unique style which is hers alone.
Sir Ian McKellen is one of my absolute favorite actors. He seems to be a genuinely kind person and he exudes a sense of caring and sincerity. I hope that's not just an act (I doubt it is). His friendship with Sir Patrick Stewart is always a joy to watch. The portraits are so wonderful. As an aspiring portrait artist, I'm jealous of the opportunity.
I think all three artists were wonderful, so I would have been happy with any one of them winning. But Christian is a phenomenal artist, and his likenesses are so spot-on! He also seems very genuine and humble. There are no losers here, because I'm sure that even the runners-up got lots and lots of commissions from this and probably made plenty of money!
I love all of them I’m really glad I don’t have to choose the final picture. Thank goodness the final portrait of the singer was better than the two little practice pictures. The final portrait showed the beauty of her perfectly.
Thrilling to see the process of different artists. It's especially instructive for those who might not know how crude the earliest stages of any original art (music, painting, writing) and how much happens before the real piece is even started.
(SPOILERS) Amazing to see Christian Win, he seems like such a nice guy and he's incredible both technicly and artisticly! Extra special to see his family so proud of him in the end!
I could not have made that decision. Each had their own strengths and brilliant talents. I would be proud to own any of these paintings. You should all be proud!
Love all these incredible artists! It would definitely be hard to choose the winner if I were a judge. Nonethless, Christian uniquely displays a power umph with his work. He's also fast, polished, and nails his subject matter like it's fresh air to him. CONGRATS. Well deserved win!!
though I understand the necessity of taking a photo and working from it; that's Ian McKellen in front of you. Soak that moment up yknow? Anyways, incredible artists nonetheless. Fantastic work.
Aine's work see's into the soul of her subjects. She has an uncanny ability to see past the surface with great empathy and pathos. I loved watching her process. It may not be full of hyper realist glitz or the latest catchy techniques that modern artists so love to pursue but it's as real as it gets in capturing the essence of a person. Her style is a still deep pond of classical artistry working in a very demanding medium. She coaxes her subject out of the colours and paper. Now a days you have to reach ever higher to stand out in the crowd with all the latest tech wizardry. It's more graphic than high art in my opinion. I wish she had won.
guys, this is keeping in mind the contestants would have been intimidated AF to be painting in front of these established celebrities who've had all sorts of fan-portraits and paintings. and, a considerable fraction of the artist fraternity ALREADY has the imposter syndrome to some extent. keeping that and the level of talent in this POOL OF THREE, they're all stunning.
Have to agree with the judges; Christian Hook is not afraid to attack the paintings with bold brush strokes and colours, while the others seem to be too afraid ... they hold back. When I paint myself, I hold nothing back ... I attack the canvas.
Christian came through on this day, and his portrait skills are impeccable. That said, I find his slashing and dobing a bit contrived. Aine comes up tops in later years and shows how wonderful an artist she is. Laura painted Dame Kiri exactly as it should be for the commission. They're all superb. But, we should be conscious we are not seeing the actual works, only a digital reproduction.
The best "competition" show so far, mostly free of the hyper-drama and ratcheting tension, destructive alike to the artists and to the viewer. While there's no doubt a great deal of interior tension for the artists (what a weird concept, isn't it, to make what is usually a solitary pursuit into a spectacle) this series seems to avoid the noisy circus tricks that make losers out of singularly gifted and accomplished people. I've stopped watching those altogether.
The judges looked for ability to paint but also to capture the essence of the sitter. Laura’s portrait of Dame Kiri and Ian McKellen was too disparate. One was hyper-realistic and the other I felt, was over painted and a bit dark. I did not see the spirit of McKellen in it. Aine’s has great dexterity with watercoor. I have never seen anyone with such a mastery of that medium and wield it with the confidence she had. Sometimes, with watercolor, one goes with the flow because it can be difficult to control. That she painted portraits with it is highly commendable. Her portrait commission was excellent. It captured exactly what it was that made the sitter interesting. One would look at it and feel “this person really enjoyed life”. However, she did struggle with Ian and it showed. I don’t think it was because she couldn't paint him. I think she lost her way at some point and tried to find it again, but never quite got there. Christian has a mastery that is mesmerizing. Capturing the likeness is easier for him, but he imbues his work with such dynamism, you eyes are just drawn to it and keep returning. I felt after the first hour that he would be the winner. Christian sees so much that other artists miss and he puts it in his composition. But then he boldly takes it 10 levels higher with his mastery of color, composition, implied texture, and a directness that dares you to ignore it. I wish the man lived in the US. I’d beg him for painting classes. The judges were on point.
Watercolor is the most difficult medium and this artist mastered it. She deserved to be the winner.
I second this ❤
@AriaMaryam. Yes, I too loved her paintings, she really is very talented, but, Christian Hook had that something that made his paintings more original, starting with his self portrait. Infact he went on to do some brilliant work. P.S. This is my favourite episode of all time because of the presence of Ian McKellen...he was adorable - and an incredible sitter.
This series has made me pick up my brushes again last year during the pandemic. So glad to watch this season on this channel the past few weeks.
I am going to eat my previous words. I couldn't understand why they kept Laura on but her painting of the opera singer was phenomenal! I was blown away. I liked all the paintings this week, but Christian has the edge in that he presents a more finished work in 4 hours than the others, but given time they are all extremely capable and gifted artists. I'm glad I got to see what Laura could do given time.
Great insights. I totally agree. Until the stunning commission work by Laura, I did not like her work . They are all outstanding but Christians is also cool.
Phenomenal!
Christians paintings and style are awful I can’t believe he won
@@Abcd-rb3zg No painters style is awful... you may not like it but that is only YOUR opinion.
I do like her painting style but she painted them too old. You could see it bothered her. She looks younger in the video than in the painting. Some artist loves painting those wrinkles.
The portrait of the opera singer was stunning.
It was but a bit too precise ,
It looks almost photographic
@@annalisasteinnes yes it was ,looked very much like a gallery piece ,but I don’t think it’s what these judges are looking for ,they look for a smushed look ,
@@sandraford4235 That's a matter of taste. Art is subjective. Many clients, when commissioning a portrait, WANT it to be precise and an excellent likeness. I thought it was masterfully done!
@@gloriapinskerportraits4801 I agree the portrait was stunning,but I was just saying those judges don’t go for that kind of stunning ,they’ve picked some very odd paintings in the past ,
When Cecily said she didn't want to look at her portrait ...because she is old...I cried.
I feel the same way...but I am glad she looked at it and we cant help how we age. It is as much a part of life as is going through puberty...And what a wonderful painting..Annya's best I think.
And Laura...wow has she not come a looooong way from painting animals. Just watching her in this series has been amazing. That portrait is almost like a photograph. The softness of the skin. You just want to touch the painting. 💛And of course Christian...whom everyone said it is easy for him...I think that was a point against him and it shouldn't have been. He was more advanced as an artist. But he deserved all the accolades. When he added the little hand in the boxers hand...well that was brilliant.
I love Sir Ian Mckellen .. such a laid back person 😇
I like the watercolor portrait of Sir Ian and it captures this sadness in his eyes and really carried out the emotions
The only true portrait here painted from life...wonder if McKellen was wondering why he was even sitting for the other two, who could have downloaded a photo from the internet if they were just going to paint from a screen
Christian’s parents were so proud. They’re all fantastic artists. My favorite final was the opera singer, stunning.
I've been a professional artist and curator for decades, to this day I still whence when I hear spectators attempting to talk about artists' works in a gallery. Listening to gallery visitors' obnoxious comments reminds me why I often leave the gallery area for my shows to get away from the trifling comments. Why is the final prize only $10,000? This should have easily been $25,000. There should always be a 2nd and 3rd prize even if significantly smaller. It should have been $25,000, $10,000 and $5,000 plus whatever other perks.
Honestly, such naïve comments from the spectators made me twirl up into a ball and cringe.
@@dayantorresart Yes! That's it, naive! Thank you! Naive and trifling...
You sound rather elitist and part of the problem the art world has with engaging new comers. Let them spectate, let them say trifling words, it harms no one, on the contrary it increases engagement for those who aren’t swimming in art everyday. As for the cash prize, I agree with you.
What about the judge’s critiques? Do you agree with them? My issue is when they interrupt the artists and say inane comments. Especially the woman with the insane grinning. 😬
@@dw309 I'm a Black woman, Mother professional artist and independent curator living in the US south, there's no elitism here!
As a veteran-artist I get to comment on the naive and trifling comments of spectators.
I have been doing this long enough to know when I hear spectators who are posers or think they know what the artist intended. Just ask the artist!
That's also what gallery/artist talks are for...
I'm not opposed to engaging with an audience if they are sincere, genuinely curious or when it's a great teachable moment. Then again the people who look like me rarely act like that and I'm not in the UK -- the seat of elitism.
Yes, those comments can "hurt" something, they can perpetuate stereotypes, mis information and/or misunderstandings about the work, artist, subject matter or negatively impact their future art museum/gallery experiences; especially if they're just wrong or don't have enough information.
You do know most artists (especially emerging ones) are apprehensive about being at their own receptions for this very reason, that's where gallerists, curators and agents come in.
You know no anything about me. Trust if I was being elitist you would have felt it to your bones. NEXT!
These three were probably my favorite grouping. There was no clear winner, everyone deserving…they were all so talented and creative. I would have been happy with anyone…they all deserved to win, but like the judges…Christian was my favorite…he got his “hook” in me from his submission.
Of all the episodes I’ve watched this is my favorite. I’ve watched it several times.
I liked the watercolor portraits. Watercolors are so delicate and beautiful.
It was a three-way tie in my mind... All of the artists did stunning work!
McKellen is top notch. That commitment...
Without any spoilers, let's just say I was blown away every time I saw this artist's work--the recognition factor required of portraiture combined with the gorgeous manipulation of paint itself is electrifying. I quite agreed with the judges' final decision, as much as I liked the work by the others. There was no way to choose badly, except by having to leave two out.
Christian Hook is a revelation.
You can’t imagine how finding out the new episodes every week make me feel! It makes my day and entire week.
Thought I was the only one hahaha
I started watching the first episode and couldn’t stop. I watched from episodes 1-8 and loved them all.
All of last three commissions were beautiful. Wow, I’ve been thoroughly motivated to pick up the pencils and brushes again. At 62, I believe I still have time to get started. Lol
They’re such outstanding artists and the show was really quite entertaining.
❤️
They picked the right one! And he is such a nice man!
Laura's opera singer commission was spot on. Cheers.
Simply brilliant! Any of the three would have been a worthy winner.
This was the best one I’ve seen so far of this show. I couldn’t possibly chose between these 3. Impossible.
What a season finale! It was amazing, thank you so much for the opportunity
Congratulations to Christian! All his paintings are unified in his personal style which I believe is quite recognizable. Even though he was not a judge I believe Ian's decision in choosing Laura's painting says alot and I believe she should have been the winner because her commissioned portrait shows she can paint in a very realistic style in the manner of famous portrait artists as John Singer Sargent and the painting of Ian was excellent in showing the unique style which is hers alone.
Sir Ian McKellen is one of my absolute favorite actors. He seems to be a genuinely kind person and he exudes a sense of caring and sincerity. I hope that's not just an act (I doubt it is). His friendship with Sir Patrick Stewart is always a joy to watch. The portraits are so wonderful. As an aspiring portrait artist, I'm jealous of the opportunity.
I think all three artists were wonderful, so I would have been happy with any one of them winning. But Christian is a phenomenal artist, and his likenesses are so spot-on! He also seems very genuine and humble. There are no losers here, because I'm sure that even the runners-up got lots and lots of commissions from this and probably made plenty of money!
All of your paintings of all of the artists here are all amazing! Keep painting your dreams!
Christians commission painting almost had me tears every time I seen it. I would love to view that portrait in person.
Laura’s painting of the singer is STUNNING. It almost looks like a photograph. Seriously impressed.
I love all of them I’m really glad I don’t have to choose the final picture. Thank goodness the final portrait of the singer was better than the two little practice pictures. The final portrait showed the beauty of her perfectly.
i admire the work of all 3 of these artists.
A deserving winner among such strong contenders.
After seeing all of Mr Hooks works I know he is great!
My favorite show it’s so endlessly thrilling
I adore The National Portrait Gallery. On a trip to London I visited 2 or 3 times. I also love the V & A Museum. The textiles are incredible.
Ian McKellen is an awesome pic. He's a perfect pick. How inspiration...
Thrilling to see the process of different artists. It's especially instructive for those who might not know how crude the earliest stages of any original art (music, painting, writing) and how much happens before the real piece is even started.
3 Amazing Artists 🙂
(SPOILERS)
Amazing to see Christian Win, he seems like such a nice guy and he's incredible both technicly and artisticly!
Extra special to see his family so proud of him in the end!
Bravo! Thank you! Congratulations to all three of them!
Bravo Mr. Hook. To me, there were three winners. - Eli
I Totally Agreed on the decision of the Judges !
Hooooray to Christian Hook !
I Love his Works and Style !!! ❤️
This was amazing!!! I hope you will start a new season next Sunday!!😄🤞🤞🤞🙏
All the last 3 artists were great. It would have been shard for me to choose.
They are all great!!! Anyone could've won and they'd deserve it.
One of the best programs i have ever seen
Very moved by this program! Excellent!
Christian is a fabulous artist! Very gifted.
I could not have made that decision. Each had their own strengths and brilliant talents. I would be proud to own any of these paintings. You should all be proud!
To me watercolorist is the real talented artist when compere to others drawing techniques .
I think they got the winner right, but all the artists did a tremendous job. Anyone could have won.
The "Vicious" sitcom was probably his best and most memorable work.
That was such an underrated comedy! I loved it.
Love all these incredible artists! It would definitely be hard to choose the winner if I were a judge. Nonethless, Christian uniquely displays a power umph with his work. He's also fast, polished, and nails his subject matter like it's fresh air to him. CONGRATS. Well deserved win!!
The judges got it right. In this session the winner is the only one that gave life to Ian's eyes.
Excellent choice! Congratulations 🎉
I loved every single one finalist!!!!!
Thank you 😘. Kiri Te Kanawa portrait was beautiful
Perfect winner 🎉 👏🏽❤
Beautiful art !
though I understand the necessity of taking a photo and working from it; that's Ian McKellen in front of you. Soak that moment up yknow? Anyways, incredible artists nonetheless. Fantastic work.
Love this episode and all of the folks in it.
Aine's work see's into the soul of her subjects. She has an uncanny ability to see past the surface with great empathy and pathos. I loved watching her process.
It may not be full of hyper realist glitz or the latest catchy techniques that modern artists so love to pursue but it's as real as it gets in capturing the essence of a person.
Her style is a still deep pond of classical artistry working in a very demanding medium. She coaxes her subject out of the colours and paper.
Now a days you have to reach ever higher to stand out in the crowd with all the latest tech wizardry. It's more graphic than high art in my opinion.
I wish she had won.
Thank you so much for this video! I have been waiting for ages for it!
A very compelling season!
guys, this is keeping in mind the contestants would have been intimidated AF to be painting in front of these established celebrities who've had all sorts of fan-portraits and paintings. and, a considerable fraction of the artist fraternity ALREADY has the imposter syndrome to some extent. keeping that and the level of talent in this POOL OF THREE, they're all stunning.
i think this is the best english show for the year
Oh just wow...loved it...
Have to agree with the judges; Christian Hook is not afraid to attack the paintings with bold brush strokes and colours, while the others seem to be too afraid ... they hold back. When I paint myself, I hold nothing back ... I attack the canvas.
So inspiring!!!
The best work is the watercolor
Wow and wow, delightful what else can be said.
The best I’ve seen! All 3 win.
I looooooooooooove Sir Ian.
This episods with Christian are the best! Christian is my favorite!
Excelente la producción de sus proyectos con los artistas. Deberian tener la opción de traducir al español. Gracias. Santiago, RD.
Lovely. Honestly, I think Billy Austin should be considered. He does fabulous portraits, and I especially love the ones he did of the Royal family
this youtube video itself is piece of art
I would have given my portrait to Ian regardless. Big fan of him.
Christian came through on this day, and his portrait skills are impeccable. That said, I find his slashing and dobing a bit contrived. Aine comes up tops in later years and shows how wonderful an artist she is. Laura painted Dame Kiri exactly as it should be for the commission. They're all superb. But, we should be conscious we are not seeing the actual works, only a digital reproduction.
The best "competition" show so far, mostly free of the hyper-drama and ratcheting tension, destructive alike to the artists and to the viewer. While there's no doubt a great deal of interior tension for the artists (what a weird concept, isn't it, to make what is usually a solitary pursuit into a spectacle) this series seems to avoid the noisy circus tricks that make losers out of singularly gifted and accomplished people. I've stopped watching those altogether.
Wow that hand is huge!!!
Absolutely amazing artworks. ☺️❤️❤️❤️
I really loved the art style of Christian.☺️❤️
I loved the Jane Fonda portrait
I hope to watch the next season
Such amazing talent 🙌🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼
They chose my favorite!---I'm struck by the days gone by...of handshakes and hugs...sigh. Maybe once again...?
The judges looked for ability to paint but also to capture the essence of the sitter. Laura’s portrait of Dame Kiri and Ian McKellen was too disparate. One was hyper-realistic and the other I felt, was over painted and a bit dark. I did not see the spirit of McKellen in it. Aine’s has great dexterity with watercoor. I have never seen anyone with such a mastery of that medium and wield it with the confidence she had. Sometimes, with watercolor, one goes with the flow because it can be difficult to control. That she painted portraits with it is highly commendable. Her portrait commission was excellent. It captured exactly what it was that made the sitter interesting. One would look at it and feel “this person really enjoyed life”. However, she did struggle with Ian and it showed. I don’t think it was because she couldn't paint him. I think she lost her way at some point and tried to find it again, but never quite got there. Christian has a mastery that is mesmerizing. Capturing the likeness is easier for him, but he imbues his work with such dynamism, you eyes are just drawn to it and keep returning. I felt after the first hour that he would be the winner. Christian sees so much that other artists miss and he puts it in his composition. But then he boldly takes it 10 levels higher with his mastery of color, composition, implied texture, and a directness that dares you to ignore it. I wish the man lived in the US. I’d beg him for painting classes. The judges were on point.
That portrait of Amir Khan is incredible.
Aine is the most artist of the artists.
Christians picture of Ian was my favourite, Laura's was my least. Laura did an amazing picture of the opera singer. Loved the one of Cis.
посмотрел весь сезон на одном дыхании
Ohhh the GENIUS Christian Hook !!!!!
I voted for Hook too. All were g8 painters. It's so difficult to choose one. My held my breadth too.
54:39 You shall not pass!! Joke hehe he actually liked it!
I traveled all over Europe to study Baroque oil painting techniques, and I was the best.
One of my dream is to compete internationally. I hope one day I can join in this prestigious portrait painting competition.
What year was this took place?
Cicely Berry passed on in 2018. :(
I liked the cubist appearing painting. ✔️
Awesome Art work
No Brainer winner... although they're all excellent.
Excellent drawing artists 👌🌹👍 amazing video