Harvey Ball

Illustrator who created the smiley face

Harvey Ball - Illustrator who created the smiley face
Born

July 10th, 1921
104 years ago

Died

April 12th, 2001
24 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American illustrator created the smiley face in 1963 as part of a campaign to improve morale at an insurance company. The design quickly gained popularity and became a cultural icon. The simple and recognizable image has appeared in various forms over the decades, becoming a symbol of happiness and positivity. Ball also founded a company that promoted this icon and its various adaptations in merchandise, further embedding the smiley face into popular culture.

Created the smiley face in 1963

Founded a company promoting the smiley icon

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