Salvador Dalí
Surrealist painter known for persistence of memory
A prominent figure in the Surrealist movement, a Spanish painter and sculptor contributed innovative techniques and styles to modern art. Best recognized for the painting 'The Persistence of Memory,' which features melting clocks, the artist explored themes of dreams, the subconscious, and the avant-garde. Dalí also created numerous sculptures, films, and collaborative works, pushing boundaries in art and popular culture. His distinct personal style included flamboyant mustaches and elaborate public appearances, which garnered significant attention. Dalí's contributions extended beyond canvas; he worked in photography, fashion, and set design, demonstrating versatility in artistic expression. Numerous exhibitions celebrated his work, establishing him as an influential figure in 20th-century art.
Created the iconic painting 'The Persistence of Memory'
Produced various sculptures and surrealist artworks
Engaged in set design for films such as 'Spellbound'
Other People Born on May 11th
Jacques Brugnon
Tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
May 11th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent French tennis player, achieved significant recognition during the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in singles and doubles, demonstrating exceptional skill on the court. Secured multiple Grand Slam titles and contributed to France's success in international competitions. Played a crucial role in the French team that won the Davis Cup in 1927, showcasing talent alongside other notable players. Retired from professional tennis after a successful career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingJeremy Paxman
Journalist and author, host of Newsnight
Born
May 11th, 1950 75 years ago
A British journalist and author, recognized for work on the BBC current affairs program Newsnight, where the tenure spanned two decades. Contributed to the portrayal of political events and historical documentaries through literature and broadcasting. Engaged viewers with incisive interviewing techniques and deep political analysis. Authored several books, including historical works and explorations of British culture.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 185 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent German physician, physiologist, and anthropologist. Blumenbach significantly contributed to the fields of anthropology and physiology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He established a classification system that categorized human races based on skull shape, which played a foundational role in biological anthropology. A key figure in the development of comparative anatomy, he studied various physical characteristics of human populations. His work on the variation of human skulls led to the understanding of racial diversity and human classification. Blumenbach also authored several influential texts that addressed topics in medicine and biology, alongside his contributions to the understanding of human variation and species.
Continue ReadingNatasha Richardson
English-American actress in film and theater
Born
May 11th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 45 years old
Acclaimed for performances in stage productions and films, an accomplished actress gained recognition for roles in 'The Parent Trap' and 'God of Carnage'. Starred in various theatrical productions, including 'Anna Christie' on Broadway, earning a Tony Award for Best Actress. Contributed to numerous films and television projects, showcasing a range of characters in both dramatic and comedic genres.
Continue ReadingLouis Farrakhan
Religious leader and Nation of Islam figure
Born
May 11th, 1933 92 years ago
A religious leader became the prominent figure of the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black empowerment and religious education. Founded the original Million Man March in 1995, which aimed to promote unity and self-improvement among African American men. Involved in various social and political issues, addressing topics such as social justice, racism, and economic development within the African American community. Sustained leadership over multiple decades, influencing the direction of the Nation of Islam and engaging in controversial discussions.
Continue ReadingPaul Nash
British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 57 years old
A significant British painter, associated with the British Surrealism movement. Engaged as an official war artist during World War I, captured the devastation of battlefields through evocative landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions throughout the 20th century, influencing the artistic representation of war. Published several writings on art and painting, contributing to the discourse within the art community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 23rd
Charles Glen King
Biochemist and academic researcher
Born
October 22nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1988 37 years ago — 91 years old
Contributions to the field of biochemistry included research on vitamins and cholesterol. Developed methods to investigate the biosynthesis of vitamin C in plants. Worked at the University of Pittsburgh, where significant studies on the nutritional aspects of human health were conducted. Published numerous scientific papers and helped advance the understanding of metabolic processes. Served as a mentor to students and researchers in the field of biochemistry.
Continue ReadingEarl Wild
American pianist and composer
Born
November 26th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
Earl Wild, an American pianist and composer, gained recognition for exquisite performances and compositions in the classical music genre. He studied under notable teachers and developed a virtuosic piano technique that drew admiration from audiences worldwide. Wild's career spanned several decades, during which he performed both as a soloist and with prominent orchestras. His interpretations of works by composers such as Franz Liszt were particularly acclaimed. In addition to performance, Wild composed numerous original works and transcriptions for piano, significantly contributing to the repertoire. His artistry includes recordings that have received critical acclaim, showcasing his contributions to both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingNell Carter
American actress and singer
Born
September 13th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, celebrated for a prominent role in the musical 'Ain't Misbehavin''. Achievements in television included starring in the sitcom 'Gimme a Break!', which aired from 1981 to 1987. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her performance in 'Ain't Misbehavin'', which showcased her powerful vocal talent and acting skills. Worked on various stages, earning acclaim for both dramatic and musical performances.
Continue ReadingPhilip Herbert
4th Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery
Born
October 10th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1650 375 years ago — 65 years old
Held the title of 4th Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery. Served as a prominent figure in the English court and played a significant role in the political landscape during the early 17th century. Engaged in various military and political activities, including participation in the English Civil War. Became known for his patronage of the arts, especially in relation to Shakespeare's works. Died in 1650.
Continue ReadingArthur Guinness
Irish brewer, founded Guinness beer
Born
1725 300 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1803 222 years ago — 78 years old
Established the Guinness brewery in 1759 at St. James's Gate, Dublin. The brewery became a major player in the beer industry, renowned for its distinctive stout. Created the iconic dark beer recipe that would gain worldwide popularity. His commitment to brewing quality led to numerous awards and recognition during his lifetime and posthumously.
Continue ReadingBrian Redhead
Journalist and author of 'The Today Programme'
Born
December 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1994 31 years ago — 64 years old
Worked as a journalist and author primarily in British media. Served as a presenter for BBC Radio 4's 'The Today Programme' where insightful interviews and commentary on current affairs characterized the broadcasts. Contributed to various publications and was significant in radio journalism. Engaged in discussions regarding political and social issues, influencing public opinion through commentary and analysis.
Continue Reading