Royal Society of Portrait Painters annual Exhibition Portraits 2012 The private view of the RP exhibition was, as always apparently, packed. Through the crowds I managed to have a good look around and found myself amazed at the evocative paintings on display. I had so many favourites I could not show them all. There was an impressive collection of portraits of the Queen, to celebrate her jubilee, and of course the celebs were not lacking in presence either. But a hugely touching portrait by David Cobley of his mother stole the show, as did three paintings by RP member Michael Taylor. Antony Williams won the Ondaatje Prize ('best in show’) and his work is absolutely awesome. His portraits in egg-tempera are stern but endlessly subtle, technically amazing and timeless. My painting had a fantastic spot on the wall of the north gallery, surrounded by RP members’ work. I was honoured it was hanging so well. My friend and model was with me and she got recognised immediately by ...
