Al Held
Abstract painter and educator
An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.
Created large-scale abstract works
Taught at Yale University and Hunter College
Other People Born on October 12th
Branko Crvenkovski
Macedonian politician and engineer, President
Born
October 12th, 1962 63 years ago
An engineer and politician served as the 3rd President of the Republic of Macedonia from 2004 to 2009. Previously held the position of Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004. Active in political reforms and represented the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia. Contributed to the country's path toward Euro-Atlantic integration.
Continue ReadingAnna Iljuštšenko
Estonian High Jumper, Olympic Competitor
Born
October 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a prominent high jumper represented Estonia in international competitions. Achievements include competing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and participating in European Championships. Established personal records throughout the career, becoming a significant figure in Estonian athletics.
Continue ReadingIris Apatow
Actress from 'This Is 40' and 'Euphoria'
Born
October 12th, 2002 23 years ago
An American actress made appearances in several television series and films. Achieved recognition for roles in the film 'This Is 40' and the HBO series 'Euphoria'. Started acting at a young age, building a career in both comedy and drama.
Continue ReadingSean Monahan
Ice hockey player, Calgary Flames captain
Born
October 12th, 1994 31 years ago
Played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL), starting a career with the Calgary Flames after being drafted sixth overall in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Contributed to the team's playoff appearance in 2015 and served as team captain from 2019 to 2022. Demonstrated consistent scoring ability and was recognized as a valuable player throughout his tenure with the Flames.
Continue ReadingOlivia Smoliga
American swimmer, Olympic medalist
Born
October 12th, 1994 31 years ago
Accomplished swimmer specializing in freestyle and backstroke events. Competed for the United States at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, contributing to a silver medal win in the women's 4x100-meter medley relay. Swam at Stanford University, achieving multiple All-American honors and NCAA championships. Participated in various international competitions, consistently earning medals and recognition for outstanding performances.
Continue ReadingOwen Watkin
Welsh rugby player, British & Irish Lions member
Born
October 12th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, a professional rugby player specializing in centre positions. Competed at the club level for Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship. Represented Wales at various levels, including senior international matches. Selected for the British & Irish Lions tour in 2021, contributing to the team's efforts against South Africa. Known for strong defensive skills and notable performances in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 27th
Tony Dow
Actor and director, starring in Leave It to Beaver
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2022 3 years ago — 77 years old
An American actor, film producer, director, and sculptor, contributed significantly to television and film. Best remembered for playing Wally Cleaver in the iconic series 'Leave It to Beaver' which aired from 1957 to 1963. Transitioned to directing in the 1970s, directing episodes of various television series. Later pursued a career in sculpture, focusing on abstract designs. Dow's multifaceted career showcased talents in both front of the camera and behind the scenes.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Marchisano
Italian Cardinal and Vatican official
Born
June 25th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1954, served in various roles within the Catholic Church. Played a key role in the Vatican's administration and became the Archbishop of Ancona-Osimo in 1984. In 1995, elevated to Cardinal, contributed to multiple congregations including the Congregation for the Clergy. Participated in the funeral of Pope John Paul II and the subsequent conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI.
Continue ReadingReggie Lewis
Basketball player with Boston Celtics
Born
November 21st, 1965 60 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1993 32 years ago — 27 years old
Played professional basketball primarily for the Boston Celtics in the NBA from 1987 until his untimely death in 1993. Lewis emerged as a key player for the Celtics, contributing to the team's performance in the early 1990s. He excelled as a shooting guard, showcasing scoring ability and leadership on the court. In his final season, he averaged over 20 points per game and earned the distinction of being named an NBA All-Star. His career was cut short due to health complications, but his impact on the team and the sport remains notable.
Continue ReadingWillem van Otterloo
Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
December 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1978 47 years ago — 70 years old
A Dutch conductor and composer, one of the prominent figures in classical music during the mid-20th century. Conducted the Netherlands Radio Symphony Orchestra, leading performances that gained national and international recognition. Worked extensively with various orchestras and performed numerous works from the symphonic repertoire. Also contributed to the field of composition, creating original works that showcased his musical talent and vision.
Continue ReadingJames Oyebola
Professional boxer and champion
Born
1961 65 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 46 years old
Competed as a professional boxer primarily in the heavyweight division during the 1990s. Fought notable athletes in the ring and gained recognition within the British boxing community. Achieved a high point in career when claimed the WBC International Heavyweight Title. Transitioned into sports commentary and engaged in various charitable endeavors after retiring from boxing. Passed away in 2007.
Continue ReadingEinojuhani Rautavaara
Finnish composer and educator known for symphonies
Born
October 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Finland in 1928, a prominent composer and educator became influential in contemporary classical music. Studied at the Sibelius Academy and later in the United States, contributing significantly to the revival of Finnish music. Composed over 100 works, including orchestral, choral, and chamber pieces. Gained recognition for a unique blend of modernism and mysticism, which characterized many compositions. Receivers of numerous prestigious awards, including the Finnish Music Award and the Wihuri Sibelius Prize. Held teaching positions at various institutions, mentoring future composers and musicians.
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