Ellsworth Kelly
American painter and sculptor of color fields
An influential figure in the contemporary art movement, created works that emphasize color and form. Developed a distinctive style that contributed to the Color Field painting genre. Established a significant career through innovative approaches to painting and sculpture. Explored the intersection of abstraction and representation, often using vibrant colors and geometric shapes. His large-scale installations and canvases have been exhibited in major galleries and museums, enhancing the dialogue surrounding modern art.
Created the series 'Red Blue Green'
Produced the large-scale mural 'Austin'
Other People Born on May 31st
Iga Świątek
Polish tennis player, French Open champion
Born
May 31st, 2001 24 years ago
A professional tennis player emerged as a dominant force in women's tennis. Achieved significant success early in the career, winning the French Open in 2020. Gained recognition for powerful baseline play and tactical intelligence on the court. Quickly ascended the WTA rankings, securing the world No. 1 position in 2022. Demonstrated consistent performance in all major tournaments, establishing a reputation as a formidable competitor on clay and hard courts.
Continue ReadingWoo Jin-young
South Korean singer and rapper
Born
May 31st, 1997 28 years ago
Began a career in music through participation in survival shows. Gained recognition as a member of the boy group MYTEEN, which debuted in 2017 under the Mana Entertainment label. Transitioned to solo activities, showcasing versatility in music styles. Released multiple singles, contributing to the South Korean pop scene with a distinct sound that resonated with fans. Also involved in songwriting, adding a personal touch to musical works.
Continue ReadingMichaël Bournival
Ice Hockey Player and Championship Winner
Born
May 31st, 1992 33 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Bournival was drafted 177th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. During his time with the Canadiens, he contributed to the team's run to the 2014 Stanley Cup Final. In the American Hockey League (AHL), Bournival played significant roles with the Hamilton Bulldogs and the St. John's IceCaps, showcasing his skills on the ice and helping teams achieve competitive standings.
Continue ReadingAndrew Bailey
Baseball pitcher and 2009 All-Star
Born
May 31st, 1984 41 years ago
A professional baseball player who excelled as a pitcher. Made significant contributions to Major League Baseball teams including the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees. Played a key role in the Athletics' bullpen, earning selection to the 2009 All-Star Game. Achieved the title of American League Rookie of the Year in 2009. After a successful career spanning multiple seasons, transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles in baseball.
Continue ReadingWaka Flocka Flame
American rapper with hit songs.
Born
May 31st, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, this American rapper rose to fame in the 2010s. Debut album 'Flockaveli' featured significant hits that contributed to the popularity of the southern hip hop genre. Collaborated with various artists and produced multiple chart-topping singles. His energetic style and distinct personality resonated with fans, leading to a successful music career. In addition to music, engaged in various business ventures, including a line of merchandise, showcasing an entrepreneurial spirit.
Continue ReadingMatthew Lodge
Australian rugby league player
Born
May 31st, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a prop in rugby league. Represented the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL) and later played for the New Zealand Warriors. Debuted in the NRL in 2015 and gained attention for his performances on the field. Experienced both challenges and successes throughout his career, including a suspension in 2019 impacting his reputation. Returned to the game demonstrating resilience and determination.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
Lee Sun-kyun
South Korean Actor in 'Parasite'
Born
1975 50 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2023 1 years ago — 48 years old
An acclaimed actor in South Korea. Gained prominence for roles in film and television. Achieved international recognition through the critically acclaimed film 'Parasite', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2020. Active in the entertainment industry with a career spanning multiple years, appeared in various dramas and films. Notable works include 'My Mister' and 'The King: Eternal Monarch'.
Continue ReadingFrank Blaichman
Polish resistance fighter during WWII
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2018 6 years ago — 96 years old
Participated in the Polish resistance against Nazi Germany during World War II. After being captured and detained, escaped from a German prison and continued to fight against occupying forces. Contributed to Jewish resistance efforts and later settled in the United States, where he shared his experiences and advocated for Jewish history and memory.
Continue ReadingUlises Estrella
Ecuadorian poet and academic
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Ecuadorian poet and academic focused on literature and education. Contributed significantly to Ecuadorian poetry through various publications and teachings. Participated in literary movements and collaborated with other poets and intellectuals in the region. Engaged in academic discourse, promoting literature and cultural studies within Ecuadorian universities.
Continue ReadingRatnasiri Wickremanayake
Sri Lankan politician and Prime Minister
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2016 8 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka from 2000 to 2001 and again from 2004 to 2005. Held the position of Minister of Home Affairs and was a prominent member of the United National Party. Played a significant role in the Sri Lankan political landscape over several decades, participating in numerous legislative processes and national policies. Represented the Galle District as a member of Parliament. Contributed to various national discussions regarding governance and development.
Continue ReadingJ. B. L. Reyes
Filipino lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 92 years old
Served as an important figure in the Philippine judiciary. Earned recognition for contributions to legal thought and interpretation of laws. Held the position of Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, influencing major judicial decisions. Engaged in public service and legal education throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingZona Gale
American novelist and playwright
Born
August 26th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1938 86 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1874, a prominent American novelist, short story writer, and playwright, focused on small-town life and women's issues. Gained recognition for contributions to literature during the early 20th century. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1921 for the play 'Miss Lulu Bett', which explored themes of personal freedom and the constraints of societal expectations. Authored various works that showcased the dynamics of small communities and the complexities of human relationships.
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