Anna Zinkeisen

Archibald Mcindoe - Consultant in Plastic Surgery to the Royal Air Force, operating at the Queen Victoria Plastic and Jaw Injury centre, East Grinstead Art.IWMARTLD6001

Anna Zinkeisen (1901–1976) was a notable Scottish painter and commercial artist, renowned for her contributions to portrait painting, mural decoration, and her work during the World War II era. Born in Kilcreggan, Scotland, Anna and her sister Doris Zinkeisen were both accomplished artists who made significant impacts in their respective fields.

Early Life and Education

Anna Zinkeisen was born into a creative family, which encouraged her artistic talents from a young age. She pursued her formal education in art at the Harrow School of Art and later at the Royal Academy Schools in London, where she honed her skills in painting and sculpture. Her early work already showed the remarkable talent that would define her career.

Career

Zinkeisen's career spanned several decades, during which she established herself as a versatile artist. She was particularly known for her portraiture, capturing the likenesses of various notable figures of her time with a distinctive clarity and depth. Her portraits were celebrated for their detailed realism and psychological insight.

In addition to portraiture, Anna Zinkeisen and her sister Doris were commissioned to create murals for the luxury ocean liner RMS Queen Mary in the 1930s. These murals showcased their ability to work on a grand scale, combining art deco elements with classical influences to stunning effect.

During World War II, Anna Zinkeisen's work took on a new dimension as she served as a volunteer with the St John Ambulance Brigade. She was stationed at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, where she used her artistic skills to document the war's impact on the home front, particularly the injuries treated at the hospital. Her paintings from this period provide a poignant visual record of the era.

Legacy

Anna Zinkeisen's contributions to art and her role as a war artist have left a lasting legacy. Her works are held in various collections, including the Imperial War Museum in London. She is remembered not only for her artistic achievements but also for her dedication to using her talents in service during a time of national crisis.

Zinkeisen's style, characterized by its realism and attention to detail, has been admired and studied by artists and art historians alike. She remains an important figure in the history of British art, celebrated for her versatility, technical skill, and the emotional depth of her work.

See Also

• Doris Zinkeisen
• War artist
• RMS Queen Mary