4. Honing

Gainsborough continues to hone his painterly skills.

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.

Read by Julian Rhind-Tutt.

Abridged by Libby Spurrier.

Director: Kate McAll

A Pier production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2017.