Little Gem scores a double in new commissions for Channel 4 with How to Paint The Mona Lisa and Big Dog Britain

8 April 2021

Channel 4 has commissioned two new one-off shows from Little Gem -  How to Paint The Mona Lisa and Big Dog Britain.

In How to Paint The Mona Lisa, Artist and Vice President of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters Adebanji Alade attempts to recreate the most valuable painting in the world, the Mona Lisa. Using the same tools and techniques as Da Vinci, Alade will uncover what it is that makes the painting so revered. Meeting world leading experts and analysing Da Vinci’s work, Alade aims to understand this portrait’s rich history before unveiling his attempt to reproduce the world’s most famous painting.

Throughout the programme, Alade takes the viewer on a journey that will evoke 16th century Italy with art history revelations, painting hacks and beautiful locations, and will ultimately explore whether the magic of the Mona Lisa is replicable.

Looking at our relationship with man’s best friend, Big Dog Britain takes a humorous look at the lives of dog owners who share their home with some of the biggest breeds around. We see the quirks and characteristics of breeds such as Great Danes and Newfoundlands as well as meet their dedicated owners, who will do anything for the dogs they deem their best friends.

Although The Kennel Club reports that smaller dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years, Big Dog Britain shows that for some people big is best. While caring for a big dog can be expensive, these pets live with devoted owners who are willing to fund diets of filet mignon and allocate a bedroom to their dogs – flatscreen TV included.

How to Paint the Mona Lisa and Big Dog Britain were commissioned for Channel 4 by Sean Doyle and Jo Street. How to Paint the Mona Lisa is directed by James Dawson. Big Dog Britain is directed by Richard Macer and both are executive produced by Little Gem’s Ben Gale. Natasha Bondy is Creative Director.  

 

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For more information contact Sian Thompson, SIThompson@channe4.co.uk