Artist paints Rab C actor.. minus vest

Published on Thursday 28 May 2009 09:42

RAB C NESBITT actor Gregor Fisher is to appear topless in the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Fisher, 55, is best recognised in the trademark string vest and bandages of his most famous character.

The oil painting to be exhibited shows him topless, wearing only a pair of red boxer shorts with yellow stars on.

The portrait, by Edinburgh artist James Metcalfe, will be seen by thousands after it was selected to feature at the BP Portrait Award exhibition.

Mr Metcalfe, who also works as a support worker in the Capital, started the painting in December 2006. Fisher posed for the artist in his own flat while he was in Edinburgh performing at the Playhouse Theatre.

Mr Metcalfe, 30, said: "I wrote to Gregor because I was a fan of his work, and I thought he would make a great subject for a painting.

"During the sittings we listened to either Radio 4 or Classic FM."

The BP Portrait Award exhibition will run at the gallery from 18 June-20 September.