BP Portraits

BBC News has posted the three portraits shortlisted for the BP Portrait Award 2009, a day late, but never mind. (See yesterday's Newsflash: CLICK.) This is my absolute favourite: Michael Gaskell's portrait of his son Tom, who was 17 when he sat for the painting. Michael's breathtaking realism is head and shoulders above the other two finalists (title link). He's a previous runner-up for this award. I hope he wins the £25,000 prize this time around. No soppy "visual poetry" please, judges. Show your worth by rewarding outstanding quality.