Annie Louisa Swynnerton (1844–1933) was a British painter who played a significant role in the late 19th and early 20th-century art scene. Born in Hulme, Manchester, England, on February 26, 1844, she was one of the leading female artists of her time and was associated with the suffrage movement.

• Early Life and Education: Annie Louisa Robinson was born into a well-off family. She initially studied at the Manchester School of Art and later in Rome, where she traveled with her family. In Rome, she met and married fellow artist Joseph Swynnerton in 1883.

• Artistic Career: Swynnerton began her career as a portrait artist and gained recognition for her skillful and evocative portraits. She exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy in London, becoming one of the first female associate members in 1922 and a full member in 1932. She also exhibited at the Paris Salon and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters.

• Subject Matter and Style: Swynnerton’s work often featured portraits, allegorical and symbolist themes, and mythological subjects. Her style evolved over the years, ranging from realism to a more impressionistic approach. She was particularly interested in capturing the character and personality of her subjects.
• Suffrage Movement: Swynnerton was an active supporter of the women’s suffrage movement in the United Kingdom. She was associated with the suffragists and created works that reflected her commitment to gender equality and women’s rights.
• Artistic Associations: Swynnerton was part of various artistic societies, including the Grosvenor Gallery circle, which was associated with the Aesthetic Movement. She also co-founded the Manchester Society of Women Painters in 1876.
• Later Years: In her later years, Swynnerton continued to paint and remained involved in the art world. She became the first woman to be elected to the Royal Academy’s selection committee in 1922.
• Legacy: Annie Louisa Swynnerton’s contributions to the art world and her advocacy for women’s rights have gained recognition over the years. Her works are held in various public collections, and retrospectives of her art have been organized to celebrate her legacy.

Annie Louisa Swynnerton passed away on October 24, 1933, in London. Her impact on the art world and her efforts in promoting gender equality make her a notable figure in the history of British art.