Annie Swynnerton was the first woman associate of the Royal academy, this pioneering painter represented women of all ages and walks of life, challenging conventions of beauty and capturing female power, strength, hope and potential at a time when women’s roles and opportunities were changing. As well as being a successful artist, she was a passionate supporter of women’s right to vote for over three decades. She also campaigned for better opportunities for women artists, setting up the Manchester Society of Women Painters, and challenging the Manchester Academy of Fine Arts to open up membership, exhibitions and training to women.
