Heat 4: Wednesday 4th February  – Skiddaw Mountain

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Episodes will broadcast at 8pm on Sky platforms, Freeview channel 36 and Now TV.

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We caught up with Chris to hear about his experience on the show:

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How did you feel when you were selected for the competition?

"I was really excited; then the nerves and reality of it all hit home. I had entered the year before but just got a place as a wildcard, so I had an insight into how it all was put together from behind the scenes."

 

What was the atmosphere like on set during filming?

"All of the crew from Storyvault Films were brilliant—so friendly and patient, even when you’re on the third or fourth take! It’s a very long day from 7am till 7pm, even though you’re only painting for four hours."

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How did you prepare for the challenge?

"I had a few weeks to prepare and knew the location was Crow Park in Keswick. I practised

four-hour paintings, focusing on landscapes and reflections on water."

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What inspired the landscape you created for the competition?

"Each location has two heats, so I travelled up the day before to catch the end of filming and find out what view I’d be painting. The first heat was down by the water’s edge looking over to Cat Bells, and the next one was up on the rise facing away from the lake."

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What was the most challenging part of the experience?

"Painting under the hot summer sun and trying not to rush. I just wanted to produce something I was proud of in the time available."

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Has this experience influenced your teaching or your own art practice?

"It’s given me confidence to continue painting ‘en plein air’ and an insight into timed constraints—similar to what students experience in their GCSE Art exams. Plus, I now understand what goes into making a TV programme!"

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Mr Wright also reflected on his incredible year:

"2025 was a good year for me because of the chances I took to put my work out there. I was lucky enough to have my work selected at some of the biggest open exhibitions, including the Royal Scottish Academy, The Royal Academy and The Royal West of England."​​​​​​​