Paul du Toit
South African painter and sculptor
A South African painter and sculptor focused on modern and contemporary art. Worked extensively with various mediums, integrating elements of abstraction and realism. Gained recognition for contributions to South African art, participating in numerous exhibitions both locally and internationally. Produced a body of work that included large-scale sculptures and vibrant paintings, often reflecting themes of society and culture.
Exhibited at the Cape Town Art Fair
Created large-scale public sculptures
Other People Born on October 31st
Jane Jarvis
American pianist and composer
Born
October 31st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the field of music throughout a long career. Served as the house pianist for the New York Mets and was involved in various musical projects that showcased talents in jazz and classical genres. Composed and arranged music for several performing arts and gained recognition for innovative contributions to musical education.
Continue ReadingOllie Johnston
Animator and voice actor for Disney
Born
October 31st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent animator and voice actor contributed significantly to the Walt Disney Studio, participating in the creation of iconic animated films. Involved in the production of classics such as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs', 'Pinocchio', and 'Bambi', the individual became part of the celebrated Nine Old Men, the core group of animators at Disney. This animator also lent voice to several characters, adding depth to the storytelling. The work also influenced animation techniques and styles within the industry, impacting future generations of animators.
Continue ReadingMarie Laurencin
French painter and sculptor
Born
October 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in the early 20th-century art scene, a painter and sculptor who became associated with the Cubist movement, yet developed a distinctive style characterized by soft colors and gentle forms. Created many portraits, often featuring women, and utilized a unique palette to convey emotion and beauty. Exhibited works in major Parisian galleries and became part of the avant-garde community alongside artists like Pablo Picasso. Laurencin's work reflected a fusion of Cubism with a more lyrical approach, earning recognition in both France and internationally. Contributed significantly to the artistic dialogue of the time through both individual works and collaborative exhibitions.
Continue ReadingJulia Lee
Blues singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
October 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent figure in the American blues scene, this singer-songwriter and pianist gained recognition in the mid-20th century. With a career that spanned several decades, she became celebrated for her unique vocal style and compelling performances. Her music often blended elements of blues, jazz, and popular music. She gained widespread popularity through her recordings and live performances, and her songs received airplay on radio stations across the country. In the 1940s, she released several hit records, significantly contributing to the genre’s evolution.
Continue ReadingMuriel Duckworth
Canadian activist for peace and justice
Born
October 31st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 101 years old
Engaged in social activism throughout her life, advocating for peace, equality, and social justice. Participated in the formation of various organizations, including the Nova Scotia chapter of the Canadian Council of Christian and Jews, focusing on interfaith dialogue. Played a significant role in the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom. Contributed to efforts for nuclear disarmament and was involved in community organizing, bringing attention to issues such as women's rights and poverty.
Continue ReadingCharles Leroux
Balloonist and skydiver
Born
October 31st, 1856 169 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1889 136 years ago — 32 years old
An American balloonist and skydiver, engaged in aerial demonstrations and exhibitions. Participated in early advancements in ballooning and parachuting techniques during the late 19th century. Established a reputation for daring stunts and innovative aerial feats. Contributed to the popularization of skydiving as a recreational activity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 9th
Caroline Herschel
German-English astronomer & comet discoverer
Born
March 16th, 1750 275 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1848 177 years ago — 97 years old
An astronomer, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Discovered several comets, with the most notable being the comet 35P/Herschel-Rigollet. Collaborated with her brother William Herschel, assisting in the construction of telescopes and making observations. Published catalogues of stars and nebulae, improving the cataloging and classification of celestial objects. Became the first woman to receive a salary as a scientist, recognized for her contributions to the field.
Continue ReadingMakinti Napanangka
Australian painter of Aboriginal art
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2011 14 years ago — 81 years old
An Australian painter specialized in Aboriginal art, contributing significantly to the art movement that highlights Indigenous culture. Paintings featured intricate dot work and vibrant colors, often depicting Dreamtime stories and the natural environment. Participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition on both national and international stages. Her artworks are showcased in various prestigious collections, enhancing the visibility of Indigenous perspectives in contemporary art.
Continue ReadingBrigitte Askonas
Immunologist with vaccine research
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
An immunologist and academic made significant contributions to the field of immunology, particularly in vaccine development. Work included research on the immune response and the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases. Collaborated with prominent scientists and institutions on various research projects. Served as a professor and held important academic positions throughout a career spent in both Austria and the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingCemal Süreya
Turkish poet and journalist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1990 35 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent Turkish poet and journalist, contributions included literary works that explored themes of love, philosophy, and social issues. Involved in leftist politics, published critiques of the government, and played a significant role in modern Turkish literature. His poetry collections, such as 'Göçtü Gitti' and 'Yeniden', established a unique voice in contemporary poetry.
Continue ReadingSpud Chandler
Major League Baseball pitcher and manager
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1990 35 years ago — 83 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, Chandler played in Major League Baseball primarily for the New York Yankees from 1947 to 1951. His pitching skills contributed to the Yankees winning three consecutive World Series championships from 1949 to 1951. Following his playing career, he served as a coach and manager in the minor leagues, notably leading teams in the Class A South Atlantic League. His career in baseball spanned over two decades, involving both player and coaching positions.
Continue ReadingVerna Bloom
Actress known for starring in Animal House
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 81 years old
An American actress, recognized for a career in film and television spanning several decades. Gained prominence for the role of the character Katrina in the comedy film 'Animal House' released in 1978. Appeared in various television series including 'The Last Temptation of Christ' and 'The X-Files'. Also featured in films such as 'High Plains Drifter' and 'The Great Waldo Pepper'. Came from a background in theater, showcasing talents in stage productions. Contributed to the entertainment industry until late in her career.
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