John Bellany was a Scottish painter born in Port Seaton Scotland. Both his father and grandfather were fishermen and his art was heavily influenced by his early experiences and the religious community of his childhood.

His work is often autobiographical with marine imagery, the sea and religious symbolism. He studied at Edinburgh College of Art, The University of Edinburgh and The Royal College of Art London.

His paintings are in public collections and national galleries and major museums including: The National Gallery Scotland, The Tate Gallery, The Museum of Modern Art New York and the Metropolitan Museum New York.

He was elected RA in1991.