Gainsborough By James Hamilton

A legacy from his uncle gives 13-year-old Thomas the means to leave Sudbury and travel to London where the arts and crafts are flourishing.

He studies engraving with Gravelot and finds work decorating the entertainment kiosks in Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens.

Abridged in five parts by Libby Spurrier.

Director: Kate McAll.

A legacy from his uncle gives 13-year-old Thomas the means to go to London to study art.

Now grown up, he is married to a woman with a private income. A confident and accomplished artist, he begins to attract important portrait commissions.

James Hamilton's portrait of 18th-century artist Thomas Gainsborough.

Director: Kate McAll

Gainsborough begins to get important portrait commissions.

Always keen to make money where he can, he also takes full advantage of the flourishing buy-to-let market.

James Hamilton's portrait of 18th-century artist Thomas Gainsborough.

Director: Kate McAll

Gainsborough moves to Bath to paint portraits of wealthy tourists.

In his studio, he works by candlelight to create mood, and paints on a loose flapping canvas, like a sail. For his landscapes he creates elaborate models using broccoli.

But the costs of running an artist's studio are high and he is always anxious about money.

James Hamilton's portrait of 18th-century artist Thomas Gainsborough.

Director: Kate McAll

Gainsborough is observed in his studio using some unusual painting techniques.

Knowing that he's dying, he summons his old rival Joshua Reynolds and, on his deathbed, his wife Margaret makes a surprising revelation.

James Hamilton's portrait of 18th-century artist Thomas Gainsborough.

Concluded by Julian Rhind-Tutt.

Director: Kate McAll

As he approaches the end, Gainsborough reconciles with an old rival.