Gail Bannister

I am 42 yrs old, I live on the south coast of England, and i am completely self taught. Although I have always drawn, it was only when a friend asked if I would do a painting of Al Pacino as a present for someone, that I started painting. Their only requirement, was that it should be in mainly black and white, and should have a modern, contemporary style. It was this that helped me develop the style of painting i use, I call it 'photopop'.....as its similar to pop art, but with a photographic feel. All of my pieces start with a pencil drawing, and then each shadow and highlight is added separately. The paint finish is flat, and this is achieved by building layer upon layer of thin coats of paint.