The Australian version of Portrait Artist of the Year returns to the ABC on Sunday night, with professional and aspiring artists competing to capture famous Australians in a fast-paced portrait challenge.
With just a few hours to complete their work, the pressure is on. Three celebrities sit for a portrait in each episode, with three artists assigned to each sitter. Judges then select the best of the nine artworks.
One of the stars spending time in the artist’s chair in the first episode is Dannii Minogue.
Each celebrity brings along an object that offers an insight into their life. Minogue chooses a Young Talent Time record, revealing she used to dream of appearing on the show. That dream later became reality, and some of her first vinyl releases were recorded as part of the Young Talent Time cast.
Also sitting for portraits in the opening episode are former MasterChef judge Matt Preston and filmmaker and broadcaster John Safran.
Hosted by Miranda Tapsell and Luke McGregor, the series gives 54 talented artists the opportunity to capture well-known Australians in their own unique style.
The artists will be judged by acclaimed Australian artists Abdul Abdullah, Bree Pickering and Robert Wellington.
The winning artist will be commissioned to create a portrait of beloved Australian actor and singer Justine Clarke, which will be displayed at the National Portrait Gallery of Australia.
Among the personalities to be captured on canvas are Casey Donovan, Josh Thomas, Marcia Hines, Carrie Bickmore, Lisa McCune, Andrea Lam, Baker Boy and Peter Rowsthorn.
Portrait Artist of the Year returns Sunday, 16 August, on ABC at 7:30pm.
