Tonight, a remarkable television event offers an unprecedented look into the private world of one of Britain's most celebrated artists. JMW Turner, an enigmatic figure who left no personal diary, instead bequeathed a vast collection of 37,000 private sketches. For the first time, these intimate pages are being made public, providing a unique window into his character and creative process.
Decoding Turner's Mind
The BBC Two documentary, Turner: The Secret Sketchbooks, brings together a diverse group of admirers to pore over these revealing artworks. The panel includes clinical psychologist Orna Guralnik, actor Timothy Spall—who famously portrayed the painter in the film Mr Turner—artist Tracey Emin, and naturalist Chris Packham. Together, they search for clues about the man behind the masterpieces, with a particularly fascinating line of inquiry: was JMW Turner neurodivergent? Their analysis of the sketchbooks could reshape our understanding of the artistic genius.
What Else to Watch This Evening
Beyond this artistic investigation, Tuesday night offers a rich selection of programming across the channels. On Channel 4 at 8pm, Grand Designs: House of the Year returns, with Kevin McCloud and his team exploring the six exceptional homes shortlisted for the prestigious Riba award. The episode features properties built against the odds, including a striking home on a collapsing hillside on the south coast.
Meanwhile, Sky Arts presents a double bill of creative competition. At 8pm, Portrait Artist of the Year 2025 continues, with this week's famous sitters being Big Boys creator Jack Rooke, ballet dancer Reece Clarke, and retired astronaut Tim Peake. Nine artists will vie to capture their likenesses under the watchful eyes of the judges and host Stephen Mangan.
Later on Sky Arts at 9pm, Battle of the Irish Dancers follows young hopefuls as they prepare for the dance of their lives. The programme tracks 17-year-old Lauren in Birmingham as she hopes to qualify for the world championships, and Ella from Dublin's Niall Holly Academy as she performs at the Irish Shield Feis.
For drama fans, BBC One's Shetland continues at 9pm. The investigation into Eadie's murder intensifies as troubled care-leaver Stevie, played by Chloe-Ann Tylor, rises up the list of suspects following a tip from a cab driver. Elsewhere, the storyline of accidental drug dealers Chris and Hayley continues to unfold.
A Night of Laughter in Bradford
Rounding off the evening on BBC One at 10.40pm is the BBC New Comedy Awards 2025: Final. From its 30-year history as a springboard for stars like Lucy Beaumont and Alan Carr, this year's final sees six contenders, including London standouts Blank Peng and Sharifa Butterfly, competing for the crown at Bradford's Alhambra theatre. Amy Gledhill hosts, with Fatiha El-Ghorri on the judging panel, and a special set from 2024's champion, Paul Hilleard.
