Among those facing the judges is 22-year-old Shan from Crawley, West Sussex. She is fresh out of art college and currently working as a part-time teaching assistant. A place in the exhibition and the chance to sell her work would help Shan raise funds for a studio. But what will the judges make of her unique style and striking acrylic portrait?

Charles from Kent is already a professional painter with impressive credentials. Trained at the Royal College of Art, he has published his own book on drawing and has exhibited his work all over the world. But is Charles in danger of risking his reputation when he presents the critics with a very experimental oil painting?

Georgina, 47, an eco-artist from Cornwall, is passionate about using her art to draw attention to environmental issues. She has come to the Hanging Committee hoping for the chance to sell her work and raise money for a research trip to the North Pacific. But what will they make of her piece called Butts on the Beach made using discarded cigarette ends? Show less