Ep 2. The Masterpiece

Rob Petrie is a comedy writer for a popular television show, but in his heart, he fancies himself a great artist. He's been secretly working on a masterpiece painting in his basement for years, and he's finally ready to reveal it to the world. But he's nervous about how it will be received, and he's not sure if he's ready to handle the criticism that might come his way.

His wife Laura, who is supportive of his artistic endeavors, decides to throw a party to showcase Rob's painting. She invites all of their friends and colleagues, as well as some prominent art critics and gallery owners. The party is a success, and everyone is impressed with Rob's painting.

However, when one of the art critics starts to nitpick and criticize the painting, Rob becomes defensive and confrontational. This creates an uncomfortable environment for everyone at the party, and Laura is mortified. Rob's behavior begins to alienate his friends and colleagues, and Laura fears that his artistic ambitions could ruin his career.

Meanwhile, Rob's boss Alan Brady has a plan to boost his show's ratings by having a famous artist paint a portrait of him for the cover of a magazine. The artist he chooses is notoriously difficult to work with, and when he arrives at their studio, he immediately clashes with Rob. The two men argue over the merits of each other's work, and it becomes clear that they both have strong egos and sensitive personalities.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Rob's painting and the artist's portrait are intertwined in unexpected ways. Both men learn valuable lessons about art, ego, and the importance of being able to handle criticism. In the end, Rob sees his painting in a new light, and he gains a newfound appreciation for the work that goes into creating a masterpiece.

The episode is a fun and insightful look at the world of art, and how even the most talented artists can struggle with their egos and insecurities. It's a testament to the enduring quality of The Dick Van Dyke Show, which remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time.