Yasumasa Morimura
Painter and photographer of self-portraits
Born in Japan in 1951, this artist gained recognition for provocative works that blend photography and painting. Utilizing self-portraits, he inserts himself into iconic art historical contexts, challenging perceptions of identity and culture. Frequently referencing the works of famous artists, such as Vincent van Gogh and Edouard Manet, his pieces often explore themes of gender and race. Exhibitions have taken place worldwide, cementing this artist's place in contemporary discussions on art and representation.
Created the series 'Portraits of the Artist'
Incorporated self-representation in classical artworks
Other People Born on June 11th
Infanta Maria Teresa Rafaela of Spain
Spanish Infanta and wife of Louis XV
Born
June 11th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
1746 279 years ago — 20 years old
Born into the Spanish royal family, she was the daughter of King Philip V of Spain and his second wife, Elisabeth Farnese. She married Louis XV of France in 1739, establishing a significant political alliance between Spain and France. Her marriage was part of her family's strategy to strengthen relations with neighboring countries. Though she experienced a short life, her marriage contributed to the Bourbon dynasty and the intricate web of European royal connections. She became queen consort upon her husband's accession to the throne in 1744, influencing court life and politics in France until her untimely death in 1746.
Continue ReadingQueen Fabiola of Belgium
Queen consort of Belgium, social advocate
Born
June 11th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1928, served as queen consort of Belgium from 1960 until 1993. Engaged in numerous social causes, focusing on health care, culture, and education. Played a vital role in supporting charities and promoting cultural initiatives across Belgium. Notably, established the Fabiola Foundation to aid the disabled and dedicated efforts to improving children's welfare and education.
Continue ReadingWilliam Styron
Novelist and essayist, 'Sophie's Choice'
Born
June 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent novelist and essayist contributed significantly to American literature. Authored the acclaimed novel 'Sophie's Choice', which delves into themes of memory and trauma. Also wrote 'The Confessions of Nat Turner', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1968. Styron's works often explored the human condition, race relations, and existential issues. His literary career spanned several decades, during which he published essays and novels that provoked thought and discussion.
Continue ReadingBartolomeo Vanzetti
Italian-American anarchist and activist
Born
June 11th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1927 98 years ago — 39 years old
Anarchist and political activist participated in the early 20th century labor movement in the United States. Involved in the Sacco and Vanzetti case, which became a symbol of political repression and social injustice. Arrested in 1920, convicted of robbery and murder in a trial widely criticized for bias against immigrants and anarchists. Execution by electric chair occurred in 1927, leading to protests and controversy both in the U.S. and abroad.
Continue ReadingRobin Warren
Australian pathologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
A pathologist and academic contributed to medical research. Collaborated with Barry Marshall in identifying Helicobacter pylori as the primary cause of peptic ulcers, revolutionizing the understanding of gastric diseases. This discovery led to new treatment protocols and significantly impacted global health standards. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2005 for this work, emphasizing advances in gastroenterology and infectious diseases.
Continue ReadingMillicent Fawcett
Activist for women's suffrage in the UK
Born
June 11th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1929 96 years ago — 82 years old
An English academic and activist played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement in the United Kingdom. Fawcett served as the president of the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) from 1897 to 1919, advocating for women's right to vote through peaceful protests and campaigns. She authored several works related to women's rights and maintained a focus on the importance of education in achieving gender equality. Fawcett's efforts contributed significantly to the passing of the Representation of the People Act 1918, which granted limited suffrage to women over the age of 30 in the UK.
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