Mohanad was born in Nasiriyah, Iraq. He started painting when he was six as he was encouraged by his grandfather, who bought painting material for him.
After graduating from the Arts & Carving Institute in Iraq, Mohanad moved to Syria where he kept painting, drawing and showing his works in several exhibitions.
Look but don’t talk, 2015, mixed media on canvas, 100x100cm. Photo: Graeme Wienand.
Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, Mohanad had to leave the country and is seeking asylum in Australia. He specialises in drawing and oil painting, and his areas of interest include landscapes and human figures.
"I have left home, but I haven't forgotten where I came from," Mohana said. "Many things remind me of home, like colourful ice cream, my family, and my childhood. But now they are just the same, they all look the same.
"I came (to Australia) for a new life but I haven’t found the freedom I’m looking for. I’m silent. A miracle happens. A new life waits for me."
Details: See Mohana's work at "Home: between here and there"
Where: Bankstown Arts Centre, 5 Olympic Parade, Bankstown, NSW
When: August 19-22
Opening: 6pm, August 19