J. Alden Weir

Painter and academic known for Impressionism

J. Alden Weir - Painter and academic known for Impressionism
Born

August 30th, 1852
172 years ago

Died

December 8th, 1919
105 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American painter and educator, focused on Impressionism, established a reputation through landscape painting and portraits. Studied at the National Academy of Design and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Played a significant role in the development of American art through teaching and mentoring younger artists. Worked extensively in his studio in Connecticut and contributed to art societies, including serving as a founding member of the Ten American Painters.

Established a significant Impressionist style

Contributed to the Ten American Painters

Produced acclaimed works such as 'The Red Bridge' and 'The Hayfield'

Other People Born on August 30th

Juan Ignacio Chela

Tennis player with clay court success
Born
August 30th, 1979 45 years ago

Professional tennis player from Argentina, competed on the ATP Tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 15 in 2004. Excelled on clay courts, winning multiple ATP titles. Represented Argentina in international competitions, contributing to the country's tennis prominence during the early 2000s.

Continue Reading

Phil Mills

Welsh rally co-driver, 2003 WRC Champion
Born
August 30th, 1963 61 years ago

Played a significant role as a rally co-driver, particularly in collaboration with several high-profile drivers. Achieved notable success in the World Rally Championship, contributing to a championship title in 2003. Participated in a variety of major rallies, showcasing skills in navigation and strategy. Had a successful partnership with driver Petter Solberg, enhancing their performance in various events.

Continue Reading

Bruce McLaren

Race car driver and team founder
Born
August 30th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 54 years ago — 32 years old

A significant figure in motorsport, this New Zealand race car driver and engineer founded the McLaren racing team. This team became renowned in the Formula One series and developed a reputation for engineering excellence and innovation. In addition to competing as a driver, contributions to automotive design and technology were substantial. Tragically, an accident during a test session claimed life at a young age.

Continue Reading

Simon Bainbridge

British composer with influential works
Born
August 30th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2021 3 years ago — 68 years old

A British composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Worked extensively in various formats, including orchestral and chamber music. Collaborated with prominent ensembles and received commissions from prestigious institutions. Explored themes and techniques that advanced the modern compositional landscape. Educated at notable institutions and held academic positions, fostering a new generation of composers.

Continue Reading

Wolfgang Wagner

German opera director and festival manager
Born
August 30th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2010 14 years ago — 90 years old

Operated the Bayreuth Festival, which features the works of Richard Wagner, from 1951 until 2008. Focused on innovative productions while maintaining traditional elements. Directed operas in various prestigious venues, contributing significantly to the interpretation of Wagner's compositions. Strove to balance modern interpretations with the integrity of the operatic tradition.

Continue Reading

Theo Hutchcraft

English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 30th, 1986 38 years ago

A singer-songwriter from England, achieved prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Hurts. The band released their debut album, "Happiness," in 2010, which included hit singles such as "Wonderful Life" and "Better Than Love." They gained recognition for their unique blend of synth-pop and baroque pop. The follow-up albums, including "Exile" and "Surrender," continued to showcase Hutchcraft's distinct vocal style and songwriting capabilities. The band toured extensively across Europe and received multiple nominations at prestigious music awards.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Mary Bosanquet Fletcher

Methodist preacher and philanthropist
Born
September 12th, 1739 285 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1815 209 years ago — 76 years old

Involved in the early development of Methodism, played a crucial role in establishing societies and encouraging the education of women. Contributed significantly to the efforts of the Wesleyan Church. Engaged in extensive philanthropic work, particularly focused on the welfare of the poor and vulnerable. Her writings and religious contributions aided in spreading Methodist teachings throughout England.

Continue Reading

Mattiwilda Dobbs

Soprano and actress in opera productions
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent soprano and actress, achieved significant recognition in the opera world. Gained fame for performances with the New York City Opera, particularly in productions such as 'Aida' and 'Porgy and Bess'. Also noted for an extensive concert career, including major performances at the Metropolitan Opera. Contributed to expanding representation of African American artists in classical music and opera. Continued to be active in mentoring young singers throughout career.

Continue Reading

Slim Pickens

Actor and rodeo performer in Western films
Born
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1983 41 years ago — 64 years old

An American actor and rodeo performer, gained recognition for distinctive roles in Western films. Worked as a rodeo performer before transitioning to acting, quickly establishing a career in Hollywood. Starred in several classic Westerns and became widely recognized for a notable role in the film 'Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb'. The portrayal of a cowboy pilot contributed to the film's unique comedic tone.

Continue Reading

Marty Robbins

Country singer-songwriter and race car driver
Born
September 26th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1982 42 years ago — 57 years old

An American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor, gained prominence in the country music genre during the mid-20th century. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'El Paso' and 'Big Iron', which established a legacy in the music industry. Additionally, engaged in auto racing, participating in NASCAR events while also pursuing a career in music. Acted in several films, including 'Gunfight at OK Corral'. Experienced a successful career that spanned several decades, concluding with a notable contribution to both music and racing.

Continue Reading

Yevgeny Minayev

Weightlifter and Olympic champion
Born
May 21st, 1933 91 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1993 31 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1933, Minayev achieved significant success in weightlifting. Represented the Soviet Union in international competitions, excelling in the lightweight and middleweight categories. Claimed a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics, solidifying a place in weightlifting history. Competed in various World Championships, setting multiple records during his career.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Charlotte

Princess Palatine of Germany
Born
May 27th, 1652 372 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1722 302 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1652, a princess of the Palatinate, she became the Duchesse of Orléans through marriage. She served as a key figure at the French court, known for her correspondence with prominent intellectuals and politicians of the time. Elizabeth Charlotte's letters provide significant insights into the culture and politics of 17th-century France. Her life unfolded during the reign of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of court life and familial duties.

Continue Reading