How to watch Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 in Canada

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If you’re eager to watch Portrait Artist of the Year Season 12 (2025) but live in Canada, you’ve probably run into frustrating geo-restrictions. Don’t worry—I’ve put together a step-by-step guide that will show you exactly how to stream Sky’s celebrated art competition online, no matter where you are in the world. From setting up access to choosing the right streaming option, this guide will make the process simple and stress-free. Have any questions along the way? Just leave a comment, and I’ll get back to you so you can start enjoying the show without delay.

How can I watch Portrait Artist of the Year Series 12 in Canada on NOW

To watch Portrait Artist of the Year Series 12 (2025) on Sky Arts via NOW (formerly NOW TV) in Canada, you need to use a reliable VPN. A VPN lets you bypass geo-restrictions by connecting to a UK server, giving you instant access to Sky Arts and NOW’s exclusive streaming library. This simple method ensures you can enjoy every episode of the acclaimed art competition securely and without interruptions, no matter where you are in the world.

Subscribe to NordVPN
Install the VPN app on your device.
Connect to a UK-based server.
Open NOW website or launch its app, then log in.
You can watch Portrait Artist of the Year Series 12 in Canada.

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Portrait Artist of the Year Season 12 About

Portrait Artist of the Year is a competition that spotlights emerging artistic talent, giving painters from across the UK the opportunity to compete for the prestigious annual title. Each episode challenges a group of contestants to create a portrait of selected celebrity sitters, often under the pressures of time and scrutiny. Their efforts are assessed by expert judges Tai Shan Schierenberg, Kathleen Soriano, and Kate Bryan, who weigh skill, creativity, and originality.

The sitters this season include figures from music, stage, screen, sport, and literature, ensuring a wide cultural mix. The semi-final features the much-loved Dame Mary Berry, while the final brings the challenge of capturing the powerful presence of Brian Cox. Ultimately, the winner secures an extraordinary commission: painting Hannah Fry, a mathematician and broadcaster celebrated for her public engagement with science. This commission marks a defining career moment, underscoring the show’s ability to transform artistic journeys into lasting cultural milestones.

What is the prize for the winner of Season 12?

The winner receives a commission worth £10,000 to paint a notable figure, often for a prestigious institution. This commission isn’t just money — it’s a career opportunity.

What are the entry requirements for artists in Season 12?

Artists must be at least 16 years old and have been resident in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, Channel Islands, or Falkland Islands for at least one year. Also, past winners or finalists from previous series are ineligible.

When does Portrait Artist of the Year Season 12 premiere?

Season 12 of Portrait Artist of the Year premiered on 1 October 2025.

Portrait Artist of the Year Season 12 Cast

Host and Judges:

Stephen Mangan – Host of the series, guiding artists and audiences with charm and wit.
Tai Shan Schierenberg – Judge, acclaimed painter with a sharp eye for technique and emotion.
Kathleen Soriano – Judge, respected curator and art expert who brings thoughtful critique.
Kate Bryan – Judge, art historian and broadcaster with a passion for cultural storytelling.

Sitters:

Celebrity Sitters – This season includes Adjoa Andoh, Billy Porter, Kyla Harris, Reece Clarke, Yungblud, Cat Burns, Jacob Collier, Shane Lynch, Emily Atack, Max Beesley, Melvin Odoom, Gabby Logan, Beth Rigby, Clara Amfo, Alex Jones, Emma Barnett, James May, Si King, Jack Dee, Jack Rooke, Fatiha El-Ghorri, Tim Peake, Joe Marler, Elif Shafak, Dame Mary Berry, and Brian Cox.

Portrait Artist of the Year Season 12 Episode Guide:

Season 12 unfolds over a series of heats, a semi-final, and a grand final, with each episode offering new sitters and challenges.

Episode 1: Alex Jones, Yungblud, Kyla Harris – Release Date: Ocrober 1, 2025
Nine artists begin the competition, capturing the spirit of these diverse sitters. Their portraits showcase both individuality and artistic courage.
Episode 2: Si King, Elif Shafak, Joe Marler – Release Date: Ocrober 8, 2025
Contestants are tested against the unique personalities of a chef, an author, and a rugby star. Only the most compelling portraits will secure advancement.
Episode 3: James May, Billy Porter, Emily Atack – Release Date: Ocrober 15, 2025
Artists tackle sitters from the worlds of motoring, theatre, and comedy, pushing them to adapt their style and perspective.

FAQs

How many heats are there, and how does the competition work?
Season 12 features eight heats, each with nine artists. The winner of each heat advances to the semi-final. In each heat, artists have a fixed time (usually four hours) to paint a celebrity sitter.
How long do the artists have to complete portraits in each stage?
During the heats, artists have four hours to complete their portrait. The time may carry into a longer filming window, but the core challenge is intense and time-pressured.
Are amateurs allowed to enter, or must artists be professionals?
Yes, amateurs, hobbyists, and professionals can enter. The competition is open to all levels, as long as applicants meet eligibility and residency requirements.

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