Darren Baker was born in 1976. He graduated from Bradford Art College in 1998 and, at a relatively young age, has become one of the country's leading realist painters. He takes inspiration from the Old Masters to create incredible work that includes such diverse subjects as portraiture, still life, interior, landscape, equestrian, ballet and sport.

His exceptional talent caught the eye of the Palace and this year Darren has been honoured with an official commission to paint the Queen. The portrait will be unveiled in 2011 to mark the Queen's 85th birthday. 

Darren's work is held in various collections around the world, showing regularly in London. In 2000 he was appointed official artist of the Professional Footballer's Association and he has a commission from the League Managers' Association to do a series of portraits for their hall of fame.

Darren has also been appointed official artist for the 2012 Olympics.