A pastime that has caused a bit of domestic tension has been revealed by Countryfile’s Matt Baker. The beloved presenter, who has been married to physiotherapist Nicola since 2004, has opened up about his latest hobby, landscape painting. Matt’s enthusiasm for his artistic pursuits has led to some “frustration” for his wife. Space constraints at their Chilterns home have made it difficult for Matt to balance his creative endeavors with the needs of his family. Without a dedicated art studio, Matt has had to get creative. He has taken to using a sheet that he throws over the kitchen table, keeping his paints on a trolley that he can wheel in whenever he feels like doing some art. His daughter is also learning to draw and paint, and they often go outside to sketch in the garden or countryside when she needs a break from her GCSE revision. Matt’s artistic talent has previously impressed many with his painted homage to the late queen. He has also been working on a new project, ‘Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker,’ where seven contestants are vying for the tenancy of the National Trust’s most nature-filled property in Wales. The winner will get to settle on a 600-acre hill farm nestled in Eryri, Snowdonia, with a tenure that will last at least 15 years. The National Trust has stated that the purpose of the project is to foster a collaborative spirit rather than a competitive edge. Matt has said that he is looking forward to seeing the camaraderie develop as the contestants work together to complete tasks. In his own production company, Big Circus Media, which he established in 2020, Matt aims to make shows that will have an impact on people. He believes that his shows can introduce viewers to rural realities and inspire a sense of respect for the countryside and the farmers who work there. As a result of his new venture, Matt has become more appreciative of scenery and has been inspired to channel his visions through his artwork. He hopes that his shows will educate viewers about the challenges faced by farmers and the importance of tenant farmers. Matt’s love for the outdoors and his passion for painting have brought him full circle. He started by doing a piece about the slate heritage of North Wales for Countryfile, where he was inspired by the work of Sir Kyffin Williams. Now, he is using his platform to share his love of the countryside with the world.
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Matt’s artistic talent has previously impressed many with his painted homage to the late queen.
“I’d like viewers to come away with respect for everything farmers have to contend with, not only producing food but also looking after the landscapes we all love,”
expressed Matt. “I also want to shine a light on the role of tenant farmers. Our Dream Farm shows you don’t have to have been born into farming or own a farm to be a farmer. I believe that if you passionately want to do something and you work hard, you can achieve anything.”
Matt’s love for the outdoors and his passion for painting have brought him full circle. In his own words, Matt says: “I’m going through my Sir Kyffin Williams phase at the moment.