Painter in oil and teacher, born in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland. He attended University College in London and Central School of Arts and Crafts. Became a secondary school art master and a senior lecturer in further education. The spirit of a place was a key element sought after in Kopel’s pictures. He was a member of ROI and took part in many mixed exhibitions, including RA Summer Exhibition and RWA. He won a Silver Medal at Paris Salon and the Cornelissen Prize at 1990 ROI annual show. Had a series of solo exhibitions. University College and Nuffield Foundation hold examples. Lived in London.