The Winner of the Raw Umber Studios Paint Off 2026

In June 2026, ten amazing artists gathered at our studios in Stroud to paint a portrait from life. We're really pleased to announce that Nick Richards is this year's winner of the £2,500 cash prize and a feature in Artists and Illustrators magazine. Congratulations Nick!

Nick says "I’m a largely self-taught oil painter, with a background in illustration & graphic design. Over the last decade I’ve focused on improving my skills, primarily in portraiture as I’ve always felt I have a natural strength for depicting people. I was very pleased to be selected to take part in the Raw Umber Paint Off this year, & even more delighted to be named as the winner on the day!"

For information about Nick, visit his instagram

To vote for your favourite painting for the People’s Choice Award go here

The Paint Off was supported by the CBPP, Artists and Illustrators Magazine, Cass Art and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters.