Gwendolen Mary John (1876–1939) was a Welsh artist known for her distinctive contributions to early 20th-century portraiture and her role in the avant-garde art scene. Born on June 22, 1876, in Haverfordwest, Wales, Gwendolen was part of a creatively inclined family, with her brother Augustus John also becoming a renowned artist.

Gwendolen or 'Gwen' studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, where she developed her artistic skills and encountered influential figures in the art world. Her early works revealed a talent for portraiture, capturing the nuanced expressions and personalities of her subjects with a subtle yet profound touch.

In 1903, Gwendolen moved to Paris, where she immersed herself in the city's vibrant artistic community. She became associated with the Bohemian circles of Montparnasse and developed close friendships with prominent artists, writers, and intellectuals, including Marcel Proust.

Her artistic style was characterised by a muted palette and a meticulous attention to detail, creating introspective and enigmatic portraits. One of her most celebrated works is the portrait of her brother Augustus John, a poignant portrayal that reflects her ability to convey the inner essence of her subjects.

Despite her undeniable talent, Gwendolen John lived a relatively private life, and her artistic achievements were not fully recognised during her lifetime. She exhibited at the Royal Academy in London and the Paris Salon, but commercial success eluded her.

After spending several years in France, Gwendolen returned to Wales and lived a more secluded life. Her later works continued to explore portraiture, often featuring female subjects, and maintained the introspective quality that defined her earlier pieces.

Gwendolen Mary John passed away on September 18, 1939, leaving behind a body of work that has gained greater appreciation in subsequent years. Her contribution to portraiture, characterised by sensitivity and psychological depth, has solidified her place in the annals of art history. Today, her paintings are held in prestigious collections, and retrospectives have helped shed light on the nuanced brilliance of this pioneering Welsh artist.