Hokusai
Japanese painter and illustrator
An influential Japanese painter and illustrator, worked primarily during the Edo period. Produced a wide range of art, including woodblock prints, paintings, and sketches. The series 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji' gained notable recognition, blending landscapes with intricate details. Spent a lifetime refining techniques, embracing Western influences, and exploring various themes, such as folklore and nature. Created iconic images, including 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa,' which remains pivotal in the study of Japanese art.
Created 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa'
Produced the 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji' series
Other People Who Died on May 10th
Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba
Spanish politician and chemist
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2019 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent Spanish politician and chemist. Served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior from 2011 to 2012. Held various positions within the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party and was a key figure during Spain's economic crisis. Contributed to numerous legislative initiatives, including education reform and anti-terrorism measures. Participated in education-related reforms during the José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero administration and played a significant role in the response to the 2004 Madrid train bombings.
Continue ReadingJohn Wayne Gacy
American serial killer and rapist
Born
March 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
Engaged in criminal activities starting in the 1960s, a series of murders occurred across Illinois. Worked as a contractor and was involved in local politics. Arrested in 1978, investigations uncovered numerous bodies buried on his property and in nearby areas. Convicted of the murders of 33 young men and boys, sentenced to death in 1980, and executed in 1994.
Continue ReadingKatherine Swynford
Duchess and widow of John of Gaunt
Died
May 10th, 1403 622 years ago — None years old
Widow of John of Gaunt, played a significant role in the English royal lineage. In the late 14th century, maintained a connection to the Plantagenet dynasty through her relationship with Gaunt. Their children, known as the Beauforts, were influential figures in English nobility. Married John of Gaunt after his first wife's death, achieving a union that was contentious due to issues of legitimacy. Her descendants would later connect to the royal house of Tudor, contributing to the political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingÉlisabeth of France
French princess, sister of Louis XVI
Born
1764 261 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1794 231 years ago — 30 years old
A French princess and the youngest sibling of King Louis XVI, Élisabeth was deeply involved in the royal family's affairs during a turbulent period in French history. She was known for her steadfast loyalty to her brother and the monarchy. Following the onset of the French Revolution, she faced increasing dangers due to her royal status. Élisabeth was arrested in 1793 and ultimately executed by guillotine in 1794. Her life and tragic end marked the downfall of the French monarchy and reflected the harsh realities experienced by royal figures during this revolutionary period.
Continue ReadingPeter Weiss
German playwright and painter
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1982 43 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in German literature, Weiss specialized in theater and visual arts. Contributions included significant plays that explored themes of oppression, war, and existentialism. 'The Investigation', a play based on the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, critically examined the Holocaust. Also engaged in surrealist painting, showcasing complex imagery and social critique.
Continue ReadingChris Burden
Sculptor known for 'Transfixed'
Born
April 11th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 69 years old
An American sculptor, illustrator, and academic. Gained recognition for early performance art pieces, including 'Shoot' in 1971, where a friend shot him in the arm. Later created large-scale sculptures that commented on contemporary issues. 'Transfixed', a notable installation, featured a Volkswagen Beetle impaled on two steel beams. Served as a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, influencing a generation of artists. Contributed to the Los Angeles art scene through both his works and academic endeavors.
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