Behind the scenes at the heats of Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2020, Series 7

It was nerve-wracking arriving at Battersea Arts Centre to take part in the competition. I needn’t have worried. The team working on the programme were an amazing support and it was a pleasure to meet the other artists and share such camaraderie in what were unusual and pretty stressful circumstances.

My sitter The Vivienne, winner of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, was the consummate professional. It was like being in the presence of a Hollywood superstar. Her slightly twisted pose must have been quite uncomfortable after a while, but she didn’t move a muscle and took hardly any breaks. She looked flawless.

It was a privilege to be chosen by the judges out of such a strong field. I’m really excited to be moving forward to the semi-finals. Enjoy these behind the scenes pics!