Nael Hanna, born in Nineveh, Northern Iraq in 1959, is an internationally recognised artist known for his dynamic and expressive paintings. He grew up immersed in a rich cultural mix of Iraqi, Greek, and Syrian Christian Orthodox influences. At the age of 19, he was drafted into the Iran-Iraq war, but his artistic talents led to a scholarship to study art in Britain. Hanna pursued art courses in Southampton before graduating with Honours from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee in 1989.

Hanna developed a deep connection to the Scottish landscape, particularly the East Coast, known for its dramatic scenery and unpredictable weather. His artistic journey included a residency at Hospitalfield in Arbroath and a prestigious scholarship from the Royal Scottish Academy to study in Florence. Now based in Angus, Scotland, he draws inspiration from nature and the coastal environment, often painting outdoors in all weather conditions.

Hanna’s style blends elements of abstraction with the influence of artists like Willem de Kooning, Marc Chagall, and Joan Eardley. His works capture the raw energy of the sea, the rhythms of Scottish harbours, and the vibrant life of the landscapes he encounters. Known for his innovative use of colour and texture, Hanna's paintings evoke a visceral emotional response, showcasing his love for both the artistic process and the natural world.