Otto Piene

German sculptor and academic

Otto Piene - German sculptor and academic
Born

April 18th, 1928
97 years ago

Died

July 17th, 2014
10 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

A German sculptor and academic contributed significantly to the field of art through innovative use of materials and light in sculpture. Piene played a pivotal role in the formation of the Zero Group, which emphasized the importance of movement and light in contemporary art. His works often involved outdoor installations that interacted with natural elements. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, Piene held various teaching positions at prestigious institutions, influencing a generation of artists. His pieces have been exhibited widely in galleries and museums around the world, showcasing experimental approaches to sculpture and visual art.

Co-founded the Zero Group in 1957

Created the 'Sky Art' installations

Other People Born on April 18th

Régis Wargnier

French film director and screenwriter
Born
April 18th, 1948 77 years ago

A director, producer, and screenwriter from France, significant contributions were made to cinema through the direction of films such as 'Indochine' and 'Manon des Sources'. The work on 'Indochine' garnered critical acclaim, winning an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Wargnier's films often explore deep emotional narratives set against historical backdrops. Other notable works include 'The Freshman' and 'The Woman of My Life', which further established presence in the French film industry. Collaboration with talented actors and production teams shaped a distinctive directorial style.

Continue Reading

James McCune Smith

African-American physician and author
Born
April 18th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1865 159 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1813, a pioneering African-American physician and apothecary practiced medicine in New York City. Received a medical degree from the University of Glasgow, becoming the first African American to earn a medical degree in the United States. Actively participated in abolitionist movements and published works addressing social issues, including healthcare disparities and racial inequality. Contributed significantly to the discourse on race and medicine in the 19th century.

Continue Reading

George Shirley

Tenor and educator known for opera roles
Born
April 18th, 1934 91 years ago

A prominent African-American tenor and educator, this individual gained recognition through performances in major operatic roles. In 1970, became the first African American to perform as a leading tenor at the Metropolitan Opera, specifically noted for the role of Pinkerton in Puccini's 'Madama Butterfly.' In addition to an illustrious singing career, significant contributions made in the field of music education, impacting the training of future generations of singers. Held teaching positions at various institutions, most notably at the University of Michigan, where mentorship shaped many aspiring musicians.

Continue Reading

America Ferrera

Actress and producer of 'Ugly Betty'
Born
April 18th, 1984 41 years ago

Ferrera gained prominence through the role of Betty Suarez in the television series Ugly Betty, which aired from 2006 to 2010. The role earned multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. In addition to her acting career, Ferrera has served as a producer and directed several projects. She was an outspoken advocate for representation and women's rights within the entertainment industry, using her platform to promote diversity and inclusion. Ferrera also participated in various public speaking engagements and initiatives that aimed to empower young women and marginalized communities.

Continue Reading

Moses Blah

General and 23rd President of Liberia
Born
April 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 23rd President of Liberia from 2003 to 2006 following a period of civil unrest. Initially held the position of Vice President under Charles Taylor. Assumed the presidency in the wake of Taylor's resignation and subsequent exile. Led the country during a transitional government aimed at restoring peace and stability. Oversaw the preparation for elections, which led to the election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2005.

Continue Reading

Clarence Darrow

American lawyer and author
Born
April 18th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1938 87 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent attorney in the early 20th century, this individual gained recognition for defending high-profile clients in several landmark cases. The defense of John Scopes in the Scopes Monkey Trial represented a significant moment in the American legal landscape, addressing themes of science versus religion. Additionally, defended Leopold and Loeb in a notorious murder case, which raised questions about morality and criminal psychology. Authored multiple works advocating for civil liberties and justice reform.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 17th

Empress Dowager of the Song Dynasty

Empress Dowager of the Song dynasty
Died
July 17th, 961 1063 years ago — None years old

Served as empress dowager during the Song dynasty. Held significant political power after the death of her husband, Emperor Taizu. Managed state affairs and influenced key decisions during her regency. Contributed to the establishment and stabilization of the Song dynasty's governance.

Continue Reading

David White

Actor in 'Bewitched'
Born
April 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 97 years old

An American actor, best recognized for the role of Larry Tate on the television series 'Bewitched'. This character served as the advertising agency partner of Darrin Stephens and appeared in numerous episodes throughout the show's run from 1964 to 1972. David White also had roles in various films and television shows, enhancing his presence in the entertainment industry. His earlier career included acting in Broadway productions, showcasing significant talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

Maud Menten

Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 64 years ago — 81 years old

Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.

Continue Reading

Henri Alleg

Journalist and author of "La Question"
Born
July 20th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1921, a journalist focused on colonial Algeria. In 1957, captured by French paratroopers during the Algerian War, subjected to torture while writing articles that condemned the use of violence against Algerians. Authored "La Question," detailing his experiences and the broader context of torture in the war. The book became influential in raising awareness about human rights abuses. After the war, continued to write about Algeria's struggle for independence and the consequences of colonialism. Later lived in France and contributed to various publications.

Continue Reading

Eugene Meyer

Businessman and newspaper publisher
Born
October 31st, 1875 149 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1959 65 years ago — 83 years old

Involved in the publishing industry, contributed significantly to journalism in the United States. Became the owner of The Washington Post, steering the publication through challenging economic times and establishing a reputation for quality reporting. Served as chairman of the Federal Reserve from 1930 to 1933, playing a role in economic policy during the Great Depression. Held various key positions in business and public service throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Lillian Hoban

American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 73 years old

An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Published a number of popular books, with a significant emphasis on themes of friendship, family, and discovery. Collaborated with her husband on several projects, contributing illustrations that complemented engaging narratives. Worked extensively with various publishing houses to bring stories to life through vivid illustrations. ''Arthur's Family'' and ''The Two of Them'' represent milestones in her career, showcasing the combination of visual artistry and compelling storytelling. Her contributions have been recognized in the realm of children's literature over several decades.

Continue Reading