Ray Kurzweil
Computer Scientist and Futurist
A prominent computer scientist and engineer contributed significantly to fields such as artificial intelligence and technology. Developed the first text-to-speech synthesizer and created software for scanning music and producing machine-generated music. Authored several influential books on technology, futurism, and the singularity, including 'The Age of Spiritual Machines' and 'The Singularity Is Near'. Worked with companies to advance machine learning and natural language processing.
Developed the first text-to-speech synthesizer
Authored 'The Singularity Is Near'
Innovated in artificial intelligence and machine learning
Other People Born on February 12th
Christian Cullen
Rugby player, All Blacks fullback
Born
February 12th, 1976 49 years ago
Played rugby union as a fullback for the New Zealand national team. Represented New Zealand from 1996 to 2002, earning a reputation for exceptional speed and agility. Achieved notable success in the Rugby World Cup, with participation in the 1999 tournament. Played for the Wellington Rugby Football Union in domestic competitions, contributing to their performance in the National Provincial Championship. Cullen's career included stints in international club rugby following the conclusion of his international career.
Continue ReadingSimon MacCorkindale
Actor and producer of 'Manimal'
Born
February 12th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2010 15 years ago — 58 years old
An English actor, director, and producer, MacCorkindale appeared in multiple television series and films throughout his career. He gained prominence for the television series 'Manimal' where he portrayed the lead character, a man with the ability to transform into animals. MacCorkindale also featured in notable roles in soap operas such as 'Falcon Crest' and 'Doctor Who.' In addition to his acting career, he directed and produced various projects, contributing to the film and television industry in the UK.
Continue ReadingLev Shestov
Philosopher influenced by existentialism
Born
February 12th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1938 87 years ago — 72 years old
This philosopher contributed to existentialist thought with a focus on the tension between faith and reason. Born in Russia, he studied under prominent scholars and later developed a unique philosophical approach. Works emphasized the subjective experience of existence in contrast to rationalism. Shestov's writings critiqued established philosophical systems and explored themes of despair, freedom, and the role of the individual in confronting life's uncertainties. His ideas continue to resonate in discussions of existential philosophy and the human condition.
Continue ReadingPaul Crook
Musician and producer known for Meat Loaf
Born
February 12th, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, this American musician and songwriter gained recognition for work with the rock artist Meat Loaf. Contributed to the production of the acclaimed album 'Bat Out of Hell II: Back into Hell.' In addition to collaborating with Meat Loaf, worked with various artists and bands in rock music. Also known for his guitar skills and songwriting abilities, he has been part of numerous live performances and studio recordings.
Continue ReadingJoan Mitchell
American-French abstract expressionist painter
Born
February 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1992 33 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1925, a significant figure in the abstract expressionism movement, Mitchell moved to Paris in the 1950s and became a prominent artist within the American expatriate community. The artist's works characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork reflect influences from the natural landscape, particularly from her time spent in the rural Midwest and Provence. Mitchell's paintings often evoke emotional landscapes and have been described as powerful and expressive. She participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition for her contributions to modern art. In addition to painting, the artist also created prints and drawings, showcasing a versatile approach to her craft. Mitchell's legacy continues to influence contemporary artists and is celebrated in art history discussions.
Continue ReadingKatherine Barrell
Canadian Actress, Director, Producer
Born
February 12th, 1990 35 years ago
An actress, director, writer, and producer active in Canadian film and television. Played a lead role in the series 'Wayward Pines' and portrayed a significant character in 'Letterkenny'. As a director, contributed to various projects showcasing talent behind the camera as well. Involved in multiple writing and production endeavors, emphasizing a multi-faceted career in the entertainment industry.
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