An artist-led organisation shaping contemporary practice.
Founded in 1859, Manchester Academy of Fine Arts is one of the UK’s oldest artist-led organisations. For more than 165 years, we have championed contemporary visual art, supported practising artists and created opportunities for audiences to engage with the fine arts across the North of England.
Rooted in Manchester's cultural history
Rooted in Manchester's cultural history
Manchester Academy of Fine Arts was founded in Manchester in 1859 by artists who believed in the importance of artistic exchange, education and public engagement. More than 165 years later, those principles continue to shape the Academy.
Today, MAFA brings together a diverse community of painters, printmakers, sculptors and interdisciplinary artists whose practices span traditional and contemporary approaches. Through exhibitions, events, partnerships and educational activities, we continue to promote fine art and advocate for the value of artistic practice in society.
MAFA’s history is deeply connected to the artistic and civic development of Manchester.
Since its foundation on 14th November 1859, its members have played a role in Manchester’s artistic life, contributing to the city’s most recognisable buildings, public artworks and cultural institutions.
Among its early members was James Astbury Hammersley (1818–1867), Head of the Manchester School of Art and MAFA’s first President, establishing a relationship between the Academy and art education that continues to resonate today.
Members Alfred Waterhouse (1830–1905) and Ford Madox Brown (1821–1893) left their mark on the city: Waterhouse designed Manchester Town Hall, while Brown created the twelve Manchester Murals in its Great Hall. And not forgetting L. S. Lowry (1887–1976), who, with his unmistakable style, captured the spirit of the industrial landscape and the people who lived and worked within it.
Today, MAFA’s archive, held at Manchester Art Gallery, provides a record of artistic life in the North West, documenting artists, exhibitions and ideas that have shaped the region for over 165 years.
Our Cultural Connections
Since its foundation in 1859, MAFA has built lasting relationships with some of Manchester’s most important cultural institutions. These connections have helped shape the Academy’s history, supported generations of artists and continue to strengthen our role within the city’s creative community.
MAFA and Manchester Art Gallery
A shared history
MAFA’s connection with Manchester Art Gallery dates back to the Academy’s foundation in 1858, when it was based at the Royal Manchester Institution (RMI) on Mosley Street, now home to Manchester Art Gallery.
The Academy’s links with the gallery continued through the work of its members, who helped establish Thomas Horsfall’s pioneering Manchester Art Museum in Ancoats in the 1880s. The free museum was created to bring art to the city’s working classes. When it closed, its collection, including works by some MAFA members, became part of Manchester Art Gallery’s collection.
MAFA also held its annual exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery for almost 150 years, until the beginning of the 21st century. Today, the relationship continues through the growing number of works by MAFA members in the gallery’s collection and its care of the Academy’s historic archives, preserving a lasting record of MAFA’s contribution to Manchester’s artistic and cultural heritage.
MAFA and Manchester School of Art
A shared legacy
MAFA and Manchester School of Art have shared a close relationship since the Academy was founded in 1858. MAFA’s first President, James Astbury Hammersley (1818–1867), was also Head of the Manchester School of Art until 1862. He was succeeded by fellow MAFA member William Jabez Muckley (1829–1905), who led the school when it moved from the Royal Manchester Institution on Mosley Street to its purpose-built Gothic Revival building on Cavendish Street, where the school remains today.
Many other MAFA members have taught at the school, including Norman Jacques (1922–2004), Don McKinlay (1929–2017) and John Hewitt.
The school’s alumni include generations of MAFA Academicians, from L.S. Lowry (1887–1976), Annie Swynnerton (1844–1933) and Roger Hampson (1925–1996) to dozens of current members, including MAFA’s current President, Janina Cebertowicz.
Today, that connection continues through MAFA’s support of graduating students, recognising outstanding work with a programme of awards that includes financial prizes and opportunities to exhibit alongside Academy members. By celebrating emerging talent, MAFA helps support the next generation of artists as they begin their professional careers.
The people behind MAFA
MAFA is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who bring together artistic, professional and organisational expertise. Our Officers, Council and Trustees each play a distinct role in guiding the Academy and supporting its future.
Our Officers
The Officers provide the day-to-day leadership of the Academy, overseeing its activities, supporting members and working closely with partners to deliver MAFA’s programme and strategic priorities.
Our Trustees
The Trustees oversee the Academy’s governance and long-term sustainability, helping to ensure MAFA is well managed, financially responsible and able to fulfil its mission as an artist-led organisation.
Our Council
The Council brings together practising artists and experienced professionals who contribute their knowledge, ideas and expertise to help guide the Academy’s development, exhibitions and wider initiatives.
MAFA Council meeting, August 2026
Past Presidents
MAFA has been shaped by generations of artists who have contributed to its development since 1858. Explore MAFA’s past Presidents and learn more about the people who have led the Academy over the years.
Our Officers
Janina Cebertowicz
President
Janina Cebertowicz studied at Manchester Metropolitan University and Bath Academy of Fine Art under Michael Kidner, Peter Kinlay and William Scott. Alongside a 34-year teaching career, she has maintained an active exhibiting practice.
Visit profile
Steven P. Smith
Vice-president / AGBI Steward
Steven Phillip Smith is a full-time artist working primarily in oils from direct observation. His work has been exhibited at the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, Royal Society of Marine Artists and the New Light Prize Exhibition.
Visit profile
Linda Brill
HMCO
Linda Brill is a figurative realist painter in oils specialising in still life. She studied at Bath Academy of Fine Art and Cardiff Art College.
Visit profile
Peter Davis
Archivist
Peter Davis is a prize-winning fine artist. His paintings have been selected for the John Moores Painting Prize (2020), the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award at the National Portrait Gallery (2024 and 2026), and the Royal Scottish Academy (2026). He became MAFA Archivist in 2022.
Visit profile
Championing artistic excellence in the fine arts through exhibition, education, and dialogue.