Una Stubbs has admitted she wouldn’t try out for her new painting show – because she couldn’t cope with the criticism.

The Sherlock star – a keen amateur artist whose work has been displayed at the Royal Academy – is hosting new BBC One show The Big Painting Challenge alongside ex-Blue Peter presenter Richard Bacon.

Una Stubbs and Richard Bacon
Una Stubbs and Richard Bacon will co-host the show (PA Photo/BBC/Dan Prince/Mike Hogan/Ana Curbelo)

Judged by artists Daphne Todd and Lachlan Goudie, the nationwide competition tests 10 amateur artists’ abilities in different mediums, from landscape to life-drawing.

Each programme in the six-part series comes from a different location across the country, including Northumberland, Liverpool and London. Almost 6,000 entries were received, with a display of works from the finalists and overall winner to be hosted at Tate Britain.

“We had blazing heat for most of the series, which actually made it quite difficult sometimes for the artists, because they were getting sunburnt,” said the actress.

“They were working under great pressure,” she added. “It was quite concentrated, but in between tasks, we had a lot of fun. We all enjoyed each others’ company and they were all rooting for each other, which was lovely. Competitive as well, I’m sure, but very caring.”

Una Stubbs at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party
Una Stubbs is a keen artist (Doug Peters/Doug Peters/EMPICS Entertainment)

Una, 77, admitted that although she was tempted to join in, she won’t be filling in an entry form if the contest returns for a second series.

“I don’t think I would have coped well. I could only have done the watercolour section, but even then, in that heat, I would find it quite difficult,” she said.

“I work alone quite a lot. So being watched and filmed and spoken to all the time, I would find it tough. And being criticised as well.”

The Big Painting Challenge judges pose with an easel
Lachlan Goudie and Daphne Todd will judge the artists (PA Photo/BBC/Dan Prince)

Una is hoping The Great Painting Challenge inspires other to get creative, and cites the impact The Great British Bake Off has had on cake-making and sales of baking equipment.

“There’s so much to learn with the critiques – what works and what doesn’t. I hope it does encourage people,” she said. “Hopefully the shops will be running out of paintbrushes.”

The Big Painting Challenge begins on BBC One on Sunday, February 22. An accompanying book of the same name is published by BBC Books, priced £20. Available now.