Godolphin Inspiring Art Teacher Takes Centre Stage on Sky Arts
As if we needed any more proof of the talent within our Art Department, our very own Mr Chris Wright has once again made headlines in the art world! Following his recent success with a prestigious gallery position, Chris has now completed his time as a contestant on Sky Arts’ Landscape Artist of the Year.
This exciting series, which showcases some of the UK’s most gifted artists, begins on Wednesday 14th January—and you’ll be able to watch one of our own competing against artists from across the country. Mr Wright will appear in Heat 4, airing on Tuesday 4th February, so make sure to tune in!
Behind the Scenes with Mr Wright
We caught up with Mr Wright to hear about his experience on the show:
How did you feel when you were selected for the competition?
"I was really excited; then the nerves and reality of it all hit home. I had entered the year before but just got a place as a wildcard, so I had an insight into how it all was put together from behind the scenes."
What was the atmosphere like on set during filming?
"All of the crew from Storyvault Films were brilliant—so friendly and patient, even when you’re on the third or fourth take! It’s a very long day from 7am till 7pm, even though you’re only painting for four hours."
How did you prepare for the challenge?
"I had a few weeks to prepare and knew the location was Crow Park in Keswick. I practised four-hour paintings, focusing on landscapes and reflections on water."
What inspired the landscape you created for the competition?
"Each location has two heats, so I travelled up the day before to catch the end of filming and find out what view I’d be painting. The first heat was down by the water’s edge looking over to Cat Bells, and the next one was up on the rise facing away from the lake."
What was the most challenging part of the experience?
"Painting under the hot summer sun and trying not to rush. I just wanted to produce something I was proud of in the time available."
Has this experience influenced your teaching or your own art practice?
"It’s given me confidence to continue painting ‘en plein air’ and an insight into timed constraints—similar to what students experience in their GCSE Art exams. Plus, I now understand what goes into making a TV programme!"
Mr Wright also reflected on his incredible year:
"2025 was a good year for me because of the chances I took to put my work out there. I was lucky enough to have my work selected at some of the biggest open exhibitions, including the Royal Scottish Academy, The Royal Academy and The Royal West of England."
From Classroom to Canvas: Mr Wright Showcases at the Mall Galleries
As if that wasn’t enough, late last year Chris achieved another milestone—his painting Sprite Musketeer 73 was accepted into the Royal Institute of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London.
This incredible achievement places his work alongside some of the nation’s top oil painters, reflecting the depth of expertise and passion within our Art Department.
Mr Wright painting was accepted into the Royal Institute of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition
Celebrating Excellence in Our Art Department
Our teachers don’t just inspire in the classroom—they are active, accomplished artists whose work is recognised nationally. Their success enriches our students’ learning experience and demonstrates the incredible opportunities that come from creativity and dedication.
Explore the creativity of our Art Department and its unique, bespoke courses here.
As if we needed any more proof of the talent within our Art Department, our very own Mr Chris Wright has once again made headlines in the art world! Following his recent success with a prestigious gallery position, Chris has now completed his time as a contestant on Sky Arts’ Landscape Artist of the Year.
This exciting series, which showcases some of the UK’s most gifted artists, begins on Wednesday 14th January—and you’ll be able to watch one of our own competing against artists from across the country. Mr Wright will appear in Heat 4, airing on Tuesday 4th February, so make sure to tune in!
Behind the Scenes with Mr Wright
We caught up with Mr Wright to hear about his experience on the show:
How did you feel when you were selected for the competition?
"I was really excited; then the nerves and reality of it all hit home. I had entered the year before but just got a place as a wildcard, so I had an insight into how it all was put together from behind the scenes."
What was the atmosphere like on set during filming?
"All of the crew from Storyvault Films were brilliant—so friendly and patient, even when you’re on the third or fourth take! It’s a very long day from 7am till 7pm, even though you’re only painting for four hours."
How did you prepare for the challenge?
"I had a few weeks to prepare and knew the location was Crow Park in Keswick. I practised four-hour paintings, focusing on landscapes and reflections on water."
What inspired the landscape you created for the competition?
"Each location has two heats, so I travelled up the day before to catch the end of filming and find out what view I’d be painting. The first heat was down by the water’s edge looking over to Cat Bells, and the next one was up on the rise facing away from the lake."
What was the most challenging part of the experience?
"Painting under the hot summer sun and trying not to rush. I just wanted to produce something I was proud of in the time available."
Has this experience influenced your teaching or your own art practice?
"It’s given me confidence to continue painting ‘en plein air’ and an insight into timed constraints—similar to what students experience in their GCSE Art exams. Plus, I now understand what goes into making a TV programme!"
Mr Wright also reflected on his incredible year:
"2025 was a good year for me because of the chances I took to put my work out there. I was lucky enough to have my work selected at some of the biggest open exhibitions, including the Royal Scottish Academy, The Royal Academy and The Royal West of England."
From Classroom to Canvas: Mr Wright Showcases at the Mall Galleries
As if that wasn’t enough, late last year Chris achieved another milestone—his painting Sprite Musketeer 73 was accepted into the Royal Institute of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London.
This incredible achievement places his work alongside some of the nation’s top oil painters, reflecting the depth of expertise and passion within our Art Department.
Celebrating Excellence in Our Art Department
Our teachers don’t just inspire in the classroom—they are active, accomplished artists whose work is recognised nationally. Their success enriches our students’ learning experience and demonstrates the incredible opportunities that come from creativity and dedication.
Explore the creativity of our Art Department and its unique, bespoke courses here.