Henri Matisse

French painter and sculptor, Fauvism leader

Henri Matisse - French painter and sculptor, Fauvism leader
Born

December 31st, 1869
155 years ago

Died

November 3rd, 1954
70 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1869, this individual became a leading figure in modern art. Renowned for vibrant color usage and expressive brushwork, his contributions helped define the Fauvism movement. Works like 'The Dance' and 'Woman with a Hat' exemplified innovative approaches to color and form. Transitioning into cut-out collages later in life, continued to explore boundaries of artistic expression until passing in 1954.

Developed the Fauvism art movement

Created major works such as 'The Dance'

Produced significant cut-out collages

Other People Born on December 31st

Robert Grant Aitken

Astronomer and academic known for stellar studies
Born
December 31st, 1864 160 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1951 73 years ago — 86 years old

An astronomer and academic, contributions centered on the study of double stars, Aitken established the Northern Hemisphere's most complete catalog of binary stars. Aitken served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. His research provided critical data for later astronomical studies, particularly in astrometry. He also held the position of the director of the Lick Observatory, where significant observational advances occurred. Authorship included influential works on stellar systems, contributing to the foundational knowledge of astronomy during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Tess Jaray

Painter and educator with abstract artworks
Born
December 31st, 1937 87 years ago

Born in Austria and later moving to England, this painter gained recognition for contributions to abstract painting. A significant part of the artistic community, held teaching positions in various institutions, influencing a generation of artists. Engaged in extensive exhibitions, works incorporate geometric shapes and vivid colors. Participated in the British painting scene for several decades, establishing a unique style that reflected modernist influences.

Continue Reading

Jacques Cartier

French explorer for New France and Canada
Born
December 31st, 1491 533 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1557 467 years ago — 65 years old

A French navigator and explorer played a crucial role in the early exploration of Canada. In 1534, he made his first voyage across the Atlantic and claimed the land in the name of France. He explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and established contact with Indigenous peoples, notably the St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribes. Cartier's expeditions laid the groundwork for future French colonization in North America. His work contributed significantly to mapping the region, including the St. Lawrence River and the vicinity of present-day Quebec.

Continue Reading

William Heynes

English engineer, notable for innovations
Born
December 31st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 86 years old

An engineer contributed significantly to the automotive industry, notably with the development of the 2.5-litre engine for the Jaguar XK120. This work established a benchmark for performance in sports cars during the 1950s. Contributions extended to advancements in various automobile designs, reflecting a focus on innovation and engineering excellence. Held several key roles and influenced numerous engineering projects throughout the automotive field.

Continue Reading

J. J. Arcega-Whiteside

Football player for the Philadelphia Eagles
Born
December 31st, 1996 28 years ago

Played college football at Stanford University, where a notable performance included a 2017 season with 1,059 receiving yards and 14 touchdown receptions. Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team during the 2020 season, participating in various games and demonstrating skills in wide receiving.

Continue Reading

Emperor Go-Yōzei

Emperor of Japan during the Edo period
Born
December 31st, 1572 452 years ago
Died
1617 408 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1572, ruled as the 107th emperor of Japan during the Edo period. His reign spanned from 1586 to 1611. Oversaw the continuation of the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu. The era was marked by relative peace and stability, which allowed for cultural growth and development. His death in 1617 led to the ascension of his successor. The Tokugawa shogunate maintained power throughout the remaining years of the period, which lasted until 1868.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 3rd

Sadashiv Amrapurkar

Indian actor in Hindi cinema
Born
May 11th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2014 10 years ago — 64 years old

Prominent figure in Hindi cinema, gained recognition for versatility in portraying complex characters. Debuted in the 1980s and became a sought-after actor for both comedic and villainous roles. Achieved fame through performances in films like 'Ardh Satya' and 'Shakti', showcasing ability to imbue characters with depth and nuance. Engaged in television roles that further established reputation within the industry. Received several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor, highlighting contribution to Indian cinema.

Continue Reading

Jean Metzinger

French Cubist painter and writer
Born
June 24th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1956 68 years ago — 73 years old

An important figure in the Cubist movement, contributions included both painting and writing on art theory. Pioneered a style integrating fragmented forms and multiple perspectives. Worked alongside other prominent artists to develop and define Cubism, collaborating with figures such as Guillaume Apollinaire and Pablo Picasso. Major works included 'The Guitarist' and 'Woman with a Fan', showcasing the experimental use of geometry and color. Engaged in discussions around the future of art and its philosophical implications, influencing generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Tajuddin Ahmad

Bangladeshi politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
July 23rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1975 49 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent political figure in Bangladesh, served as the first Prime Minister following the country's independence in 1971. Played a crucial role in the Liberation War against Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. Instrumental in establishing the provisional government during the war and played a significant part in diplomatic negotiations for international recognition. His leadership helped shape the early years of the new nation, influencing policies related to governance and development. Served in the government until 1972, contributing to the establishment of the country's political framework.

Continue Reading

Charles Tournemire

Organist and composer of liturgical music
Born
1870 155 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1939 85 years ago — 69 years old

An organist and composer associated with the French symphonic movement, contributed significantly to liturgical music. Studied under notable figures such as Gabriel Fauré and won recognition for compositions highlighting the organ. Held the position of organist at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Paris, where many of his works were performed. His compositions often integrated elements of French folk music and traditions into church music, becoming one of the prominent figures in early 20th-century French organ music.

Continue Reading

Olav Aukrust

Norwegian poet and educator
Born
January 21st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1929 95 years ago — 46 years old

Born in Norway in 1883, this figure contributed significantly to the literary and educational landscape of the country. As a poet, this individual wrote numerous works that celebrated nature and the Norwegian landscape. In addition to poetry, this figure served as an educator and was involved in promoting literature and cultural activities within Norway. The themes of personal reflection and a strong connection to nature characterized much of the work produced.

Continue Reading

William J. Coyne

American politician and lawyer
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania from 1991 to 2003. Worked in the legal field before entering politics. Represented the 14th congressional district and was involved in various legislative initiatives. Played a key role in economic and community development within his district. Participated in public service and legal advocacy throughout his career.

Continue Reading