EVERYONE'S favourite Bankie artist is back and this time he debuting in a brand new art gallery opening in Clydebank.

Jim O'Donnell will be bringing his illustrations to life once more as the opening act for the new, Awestruck art gallery, where he will be a permanent fixture alongside his 35-strong collection.

The former Asda Clydebank greeter - who has invested his time in his art since retiring from the store - has already featured in galleries across the country and even created his own tourist attraction by opening the doors of his Dalmuir home and transforming his living room into his own personal art show.

The 62-year-old said: "A lot of people have been asking me when I was going to be doing a show in Clydebank because they couldn't make it to Helensburgh - it's a long way for people - so I'm absolutely looking forward to it.

"There's not anything like this in the area - it's such a huge space. There's two floors and there's other artists coming in plus crafts and fairs.

"I've already had people coming up to me in the shopping centre asking about it and people have come and had a look around so I think they're looking forward to it.

"I've had two great shows in Helensburgh but it's nice to be in Clydebank."

The gallery is also hoping to offer teaching workshops for budding artists - like Jim's 7-year-old granddaughter - can come along to hone their craft.

Gallery director, Allan Rutherford, added: "Clydebank will have it's own art gallery Awestruck this coming Friday, October 21, in 75 Kilbowie Road.

"It will show the work of local artists and will have arts and craft fairs on a Saturday and Sunday.

"The opening show will feature Clydebank's very own Jim O'Donnell, also known as Jody Art, who will be based in the main shop floor.

"We will also have a media department as Boy in the Corner Photography will be based there with Photography and videography services from their main office.

"In the gallery there is plans for classes and fine print reproduction. There is also digital art for sale that will be custom made to the customers colour scheme as well as room space for hire for local groups in the evenings.

"We are currently looking to promote art culture in Clydebank, we not only have space for artists for their shows but we have a mixed gallery too where artists can show a few pieces of their work in the upstairs gallery.

Anyone interested in hiring the space or craft tables for the fair, should contact the gallery directly or via their Facebook page Awestruck Art Gallery.

The gallery will hold a private launch night on Friday before opening to the public the following day from 9.30am to 5pm.