Wakefield Museums and Castles

This is a rare self-portrait of Wakefield artist Cynthia Kenny (1929 – 2021). Most of her artworks are of landscapes and buildings.

Kenny painted places in Britain and beyond. She exhibited around the world. But the city of Wakefield held a special place in her heart. Kenny was captivated by Wakefield's distinctive skyline. She also painted the yards and backstreets, which she called ‘dwelling places.’

Kenny gained her passion for painting at Thornes House School during the Second World War. She later studied part time at Wakefield College. This further developed her artistic skills. 

Many galleries have displayed Cynthia Kenny's work. Wakefield Art Gallery (1934 - 2010) was one of her first champions. She had two solo exhibitions. Wakefield Council also staged a double exhibition of Kenny’s work for her 75th birthday in 2004.

In 1981 the Royal Academy in London selected Kenny’s work for their famous Summer Exhibition. 

Today, The Hepworth Wakefield and Wakefield Museums and Castles look after more than 20 works by Cynthia Kenny. 

Painting digitally reproduced with the kind permission of the Cynthia Kenny estate.