Landscape Artist of the Year 2026: Britain’s Premier Painting Competition Returns
Introduction: A Celebration of British Landscape Art
Sky Arts’ flagship arts competition Landscape Artist of the Year returns to Sky Arts, Freeview and streaming service NOW for its eleventh season on January 14th, shining a spotlight on extraordinary artistic talent from across the UK and Ireland. The series has become a cornerstone of British television, celebrating the rich tradition of landscape painting whilst discovering emerging artistic voices. With more than 2,000 applicants nationwide, the competition demonstrates the enduring appeal of landscape art and its significance in contemporary British culture.
What’s New in Series 11
Hosted by Stephen Mangan, the series sees a new wave of artists pick up their brushes to capture the country’s most striking scenery. This series, we welcome Eva Langret, Director of Frieze London, to the judging panel for the first time, bringing her extensive expertise and keen eye for contemporary art to the series. Eva will be joined by long-standing judges Tai Shan Schierenberg and Kathleen Soriano.
The contest begins at Derwentwater in the Lake District. Artists will also visit other stunning locations including the White Cliffs of Dover and Keswick beneath the imposing slopes of Skiddaw Mountain. Eight artists are given just 4 hours to respond to the vast mountain landscape, battling changing light, fast-moving weather and the sheer scale of the scenery.
The Prize and What’s at Stake
The winners from each heat will progress through to the semi-final and final, where one artist will be crowned Landscape Artist of the Year 2026 and receive a £10,000 commission to paint Croagh Patrick – Ireland’s holy mountain – a stunning landscape in County Mayo for the National Gallery of Ireland. This prestigious commission offers the winner not only financial reward but also lasting recognition within the art world, with their work becoming part of a major institution’s permanent collection.
Conclusion: Why This Competition Matters
Landscape Artist of the Year 2026 represents more than just a television competition—it’s a vital platform for showcasing diverse artistic talent and keeping the British landscape painting tradition alive in the modern era. The show provides emerging artists with unprecedented exposure whilst inspiring viewers to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding them. As the series unfolds over the coming weeks, audiences can expect compelling storytelling, artistic excellence, and a genuine celebration of creativity that reinforces the importance of the arts in contemporary society.