My Experience of Being a Wildcard Artist on Landscape Artist of the Year 2025

I was very excited about being invited to participate in 'Landscape Artist of the Year' (Sky Arts TV) as a wildcard artist recently. The episode was filmed in June 2024 and the location was Dinorwic Quarry, Snowdonia, North Wales. After weighing up various pros and cons, we (my husband and I) decided to make our way there on the day of filming rather than book accommodation. This meant that we were in for a very early start as wildcard registration began at 7.30am! I was well prepared the night before and determined to get a good night's sleep. After six hours of staring at the ceiling in the dark and managing a surreal level of panic, it was time to roll out of bed and face the day. Without sugar coating it too much, I was not at my best...in fact, I would've aced it as an extra in a zombie apocalypse movie. I laughed it off though as I staggered into the registration queue dragging my canvas and any remaining semblance of self behind me.

I'm in the centre...the pasty looking one in the navy blue coat. I'd woken up a bit by then which was a bonus.

We were all briefed after registration and taken into a large field where we analysed the vista and located a comfortable space to set up our equipment. The crew began filming at this point and everyone there was interviewed by the producer. Things seemed to settle down quietly after this as the presenters meandered around us, asking some of us about our process and making small talk. Unfortunately, we were unable to stay for the full day due to family commitments, but I did mangage to get a decent amount of paint down. It turned out to be an immensely enjoyable and rewarding day with many wonderful memories made.

The pods were located directly in front of us.

Being filmed in the centre here. This shot was used in the show, I was blatantly unaware that I was chewing on a paintbrush at the time!

Getting some paint down. It was a hot day with paint drying super quick, so it was quite a challenge.

I would recommend applying if you find yourself drawn to doing this. You have nothing to lose and rest assured, it will be a great experience if you are selected. So, good luck and just go for it!