The painting process is a solitary one in the usual course of things. But on Sunday 16th June, I sat in a glass studio, in the centre of Trafalgar square, being the focal point of camera men and passers-by.

I was privileged to take part in the London final of The Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year, shortlisted to paint live alongside 20 other artists, producing a portrait in 4 hours. The sitters were Robert Lindsay, Alison Steadman and Juliet Stevenson.

My self portrait (right) was also exhibited on site for the day, alongside other self-portraits.

Frank Skinner and Joan Bakewell presented the show. It will be aired as part of a 6-part series on Sky Arts in late Autumn 2013.