Franz Kline
Abstract Expressionist painter
An American painter and academic played a pivotal role in the Abstract Expressionism movement. Influenced by gestures and action painting, created large-scale works characterized by bold black strokes against a white background. Worked primarily with oil and developed a unique style that emphasized spontaneity and emotional intensity. Participated in the New York art scene and exhibited with other prominent artists of the time. Held teaching positions at several institutions and contributed to the education of future generations of artists.
Created iconic works such as 'Mahoning'
Participated in the 1950 Ninth Street Show
Exhibited at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Influenced the development of modern abstract art
Other People Born on May 23rd
Jules Dumont d'Urville
French Admiral and Antarctic Explorer
Born
May 23rd, 1790 236 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1842 184 years ago — 51 years old
An admiral and explorer, contributed to the understanding of the Antarctic region and the Pacific Ocean. Commanded several voyages, with notable expeditions aboard the Astrolabe and Zélée between 1837 and 1840. Played a significant role in the early exploration of Australasia and the South Pole, mapping numerous territories and introducing advancements in scientific exploration methodologies.
Continue ReadingAlicia de Larrocha
Catalan pianist, concerto performer
Born
May 23rd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2009 17 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Barcelona, a noted pianist gained international recognition for performances of Spanish classical music and interpretations of composers such as Granados and Albéniz. Debuted at the age of five and performed with major orchestras worldwide including the London Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Collaborated with prominent conductors and musicians, receiving accolades for exceptional artistry and technique. Active in teaching and inspiring future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingJózef Wieniawski
Polish pianist and composer of operas
Born
May 23rd, 1837 189 years ago
Died
1912 114 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent pianist and composer focused on the Romantic era. Composed various works, including operas, orchestral pieces, and piano music. Held a significant position in music as both a performer and educator. Contributed to the development of Polish music and influenced future generations of musicians. Served as a professor at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, where he nurtured talent and shared expertise. His works often showcased technical prowess and emotional depth, reflecting the musical trends of the period.
Continue ReadingS. Donald Stookey
American physicist and inventor of CorningWare
Born
May 23rd, 1915 111 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2014 12 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1915, this physicist and chemist contributed significantly to materials science. The invention of CorningWare revolutionized cooking and kitchenware, combining unique properties of glass and ceramic. This product gained widespread usage in homes and food service. Additionally, work on photo-sensitive glass led to advancements in imaging technology. The influence of these inventions extended into both culinary and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingNikolai Vekšin
Sailor and Captain of Estonian origin
Born
May 23rd, 1887 139 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1951 75 years ago — 63 years old
Started sailing at an early age, Vekšin became a prominent figure in maritime navigation and exploration. Participated in various sea expeditions and contributed to the development of sailing techniques. Served as a captain, leading numerous voyages across challenging waters, demonstrating skill and resilience. His experiences at sea contributed to his esteemed reputation within the sailing community. Vekšin's legacy includes a focus on maritime safety and navigation, influencing future generations of sailors until his death in 1951.
Continue ReadingLinden Ashby
Actor best known for 'Teen Wolf'
Born
May 23rd, 1960 66 years ago
An American actor achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Featured in the popular series 'Teen Wolf' as Jackson Whittemore, contributing to the show's success from 2011 to 2017. Also appeared in the movie 'Mortal Kombat' as Johnny Cage, showcasing talent in the action genre. Early career included roles in various soap operas, with a significant break in film and television leading to a lasting presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
F. E. McWilliam
Irish sculptor and educator
Born
April 30th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1992 34 years ago — 83 years old
An Irish sculptor and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of sculpture throughout the 20th century. Active in both London and Ireland, the sculptor's work reflected modernist influences, characterized by a unique approach to form and space. Educated at the Belfast School of Art, the sculptor also had a notable teaching career that involved influencing future generations of artists. Some works integrated figurative elements with abstract styles, showcasing an innovative interpretation of traditional sculptural techniques. The artwork remains celebrated for its aesthetic qualities and conceptual depth.
Continue ReadingSholem Aleichem
Ukrainian-American author and playwright
Born
March 2nd, 1859 167 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1916 110 years ago — 57 years old
Born in what is now Ukraine, a prominent author and playwright wrote in Yiddish. His works often depicted the lives of Jewish families in Eastern Europe, intertwining humor and social commentary. The character Tevye the Dairyman, featured in stories such as 'Tevye and His Daughters', gained widespread acclaim and inspired the musical 'Fiddler on the Roof'. In the early 20th century, the contributions to Yiddish literature and theater became significant, earning recognition and establishing a legacy that continues to influence Jewish culture.
Continue ReadingLibert H. Boeynaems
Bishop and missionary in the United States
Born
August 18th, 1857 169 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1926 100 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Belgium, served as a bishop and dedicated missionary in the United States. Contributed to various church initiatives and outreach programs. Played a significant role in the establishment of Catholic communities in the Midwest. Involved in promoting education and social services within the church.
Continue ReadingDoris Day
Singer and actress in musicals and films
Born
April 3rd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 7 years ago — 97 years old
An American singer and actress, emerged in the late 1940s and became a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Achieved widespread fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films such as 'Pillow Talk', 'Calamity Jane', and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Transitioned seamlessly between music and acting, recording hit songs like 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)'. Established an animal welfare foundation later in life, advocating for animal rights and protection.
Continue ReadingRichard Ellmann
Literary critic and biographer of Joyce
Born
March 15th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1985 41 years ago — 67 years old
An American author and critic, specialized in modernist literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. Authored a celebrated biography of Joyce, which provided in-depth analysis and context to the author's life and writings. Also penned influential works on other literary figures, including W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett. Served as a professor at various universities and contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews, shaping the understanding of 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingEliphalet Dyer
Colonel and American politician
Born
September 14th, 1721 305 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1807 219 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a colonel during the American Revolution and held various political positions in colonial Connecticut. Practiced law and was a prominent figure in the early governance of the state. Participated in the establishment of local government structures and contributed to legislative processes.
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