Kumi Sasaki
Japanese singer and model
Sasaki started a career in the entertainment industry at a young age, gaining popularity as a singer and model. Released several singles that charted in Japan and participated in notable modeling campaigns, showcasing fashion brands. Gained a significant following through performances and social media presence, becoming a recognizable figure in the contemporary Japanese pop culture landscape.
Released hit singles that charted in Japan
Participated in major modeling campaigns
Other People Born on January 22nd
Francis Picabia
French painter and poet of Dada movement
Born
January 22nd, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1953 72 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1879, this artist emerged as a prominent figure in the Dada movement, which challenged traditional art norms and expressions. The artistic career spanned various styles, including Impressionism, Cubism, and later, abstract art. The artist contributed significantly to the avant-garde scene, blending poetry with visual art and producing works that questioned conventions of artistry. Various exhibitions showcased the artist's innovative perspectives. Later in life, the artist's works increasingly reflected an interest in mechanistic themes and surrealism.
Continue ReadingJohn Hurt
English actor in film and television
Born
January 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 77 years old
An acclaimed English actor gained recognition for work in film and television over a career spanning more than six decades. Notable roles included the titular character in 'The Elephant Man', and a supporting role in 'Midnight Express'. Also portrayed the War Doctor in the popular television series 'Doctor Who'. Received multiple awards, including two Academy Award nominations and a BAFTA Award for Best Actor. Contributed significantly to the arts through performances in diverse genres.
Continue ReadingCharles Lisanby
Production designer for film and TV
Born
January 22nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American production designer and art director, contributed significantly to the visual aesthetics of film and television. His work spanned several decades, starting in the 1950s. Collaboration with major networks included the design of sets for notable productions. Lisanby's work on 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show' is widely recognized. His creative vision helped shape the ambiance and settings of these iconic series.
Continue ReadingD. W. Griffith
American film director, Birth of a Nation
Born
January 22nd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1948 77 years ago — 73 years old
An American director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the early development of cinema. Pioneered narrative techniques and established conventions in film that are still used today. Directed 'The Birth of a Nation' in 1915, which was one of the first feature-length films and showcased innovative storytelling methods. The film sparked considerable controversy due to its portrayal of race relations and the Ku Klux Klan.
Continue ReadingWilbur Scoville
Chemist, developed Scoville scale
Born
January 22nd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1942 83 years ago — 77 years old
This individual was an American chemist and pharmacist who was instrumental in developing the Scoville scale, a measurement used to quantify the heat of peppers and other spicy foods. The scale provides a standardized method for assessing spiciness based on the concentration of capsaicin, the compound responsible for heat. This work became a significant reference for both culinary and agricultural practices. In addition to the Scoville scale, contributions included research in the field of flavor chemistry and advancements in food safety. Published extensive research that contributed to the understanding of food composition and its effects.
Continue ReadingEdward Harkness
American philanthropist and supporter of education
Born
January 22nd, 1874 151 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1940 85 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent philanthropist, contributed significant funding to educational institutions and medical research. Harkness supported Yale University, establishing the Harkness Fellowships in 1920 to promote international academic exchange. Significant donations were made to the University of Chicago, the New York Public Library, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His financial contributions helped shape higher education in the United States during the early 20th century.
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