January 27

Born in Milan in 1538, Lomazzo trained as a painter while studying classical literature and humanist thought. His striking Mannerist works combined allegory and vivid color, attracting patrons across Lombardy. In 1571, an accident left him temporarily blind, prompting him to turn to writing about art. He authored the landmark Trattato dell’arte de la pittura, scultura et architettura (1584), codifying artistic principles and iconography. Lomazzo’s theoretical insights shaped the practice of generations of artists in Italy and beyond. He died in 1592, leaving a dual legacy as both creator and critic.

Born in Hamburg in 1560, Praetorius belonged to a distinguished musical family and trained in church music traditions. As organist at St. Johannis and later at St. Katharinen, he composed polyphonic motets, masses, and instrumental canzonas. His works display a mastery of counterpoint and the Venetian polychoral style, blending German and Italian influences. Praetorius published several collections, contributing to the spread of new musical forms in northern Europe. His legacy influenced the North German organ school and composers such as his nephew Michael Praetorius. He died in 1629, leaving an enduring imprint on sacred and organ music.

Born in Gorinchem in 1566, Bloemaert studied under local masters before establishing himself in Utrecht. His early Mannerist style evolved into a monumental Baroque approach, as seen in his biblical and mythological scenes. A respected teacher, he trained artists like Gerrit van Honthorst and Jacob van Campen, shaping Dutch Golden Age painting. Bloemaert also produced engravings and drawings, disseminating his work across Europe. His adaptability and technical mastery made him a central figure in the transition between artistic movements. He died in 1651, leaving a prolific legacy of over 600 paintings and numerous prints.

Born in Padua, Bartolomeo Cristofori served as an expert harpsichord maker for the Medici court in Florence. Around 1700, he developed the first pianoforte, introducing a hammer mechanism that allowed for dynamic variation in tone. His invention revolutionized keyboard music by enabling players to control softness and loudness with touch. Although only a few of his instruments survive, Cristofori’s designs laid the foundation for centuries of piano development. His pioneering work transformed music composition and performance across Europe.

John James Audubon embarked on extensive expeditions across the United States to document bird species in their natural habitats. His monumental work, "The Birds of America," featured life-size, hand-colored engravings of over 700 species and remains a landmark in both art and science. Audubon’s blend of artistic skill and scientific observation set new standards for wildlife illustration. He also founded the first Audubon Society to promote bird conservation. His passion for ornithology and art created a lasting legacy in natural history.

Edward Middleton Barry, born in 1830, was the youngest son of renowned architect Sir Charles Barry. He studied at the Royal Academy and took over his father’s practice after 1860. Barry’s notable works include the design of the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and the Halifax Town Hall. His architectural style blended classical and Italianate elements, reflecting the Victorian era’s eclectic tastes. Barry also served as Professor of Architecture at the Royal Academy, influencing a generation of architects before his death in 1880.

Giuseppe Verdi was born in 1813 in Le Roncole, Italy, and became one of the greatest opera composers of the 19th century. His prolific output includes masterpieces such as Rigoletto, Il Trovatore, La Traviata, Aida, and Otello. Verdi’s music is celebrated for its emotional intensity, memorable melodies, and dramatic depth. Beyond his musical achievements, he was a symbol of Italian unity during the Risorgimento movement. Verdi’s operas continue to be performed worldwide, and his legacy endures in both concert halls and cultural history.

Erich Kleiber was born in Vienna in 1890 and initially pursued a career as a violinist before turning to conducting. He rose to prominence at the Berlin State Opera, where he championed contemporary composers such as Alban Berg, conducting the premiere of 'Wozzeck'. Fleeing Nazi Germany for political and artistic freedom, he held posts at La Scala in Milan and later in Buenos Aires and London. Kleiber was renowned for his clarity, precision, and advocacy of new music alongside traditional repertoire. His recordings and live performances influenced generations of conductors. He remained a steadfast proponent of artistic integrity until his death in 1956.

Born in 1878 in Russia and raised in New York, Abraham Walkowitz studied at the National Academy of Design and the Art Students League. He became a central figure in the Ashcan School movement, embracing urban realism before exploring abstraction. Walkowitz formed a close friendship with Isadora Duncan, producing thousands of drawings that captured the dancer's fluid movements. His work was featured in the landmark 1913 Armory Show, introducing modernist ideas to American audiences. Throughout his career, he exhibited widely and taught aspiring artists in New York. His legacy endures in museums and collections that celebrate his pioneering contributions to American modern art.

Born in New Orleans in 1911, Mahalia Jackson began singing in church choirs and developed a commanding vocal presence. She rose to prominence in the 1940s, bringing gospel music to international audiences and recording hits like 'Move On Up a Little Higher.' Jackson's stirring performances at civil rights events, including the 1963 March on Washington, made her an anthem of the movement. Her recordings broke racial barriers and inspired countless artists across genres. Jackson's legacy endures as a bridge between sacred tradition and popular music.

Born in Stirling, Scotland, in 1914, Norman McLaren immigrated to Canada in 1941 and joined the National Film Board of Canada. He became renowned for inventing hand-drawn animation directly on film stock and for his innovative use of stop-motion and drawn-on-film soundtracks. McLaren won an Academy Award for his 1952 short film "Neighbours," a striking anti-war allegory. His creations like "Pas de deux" and "Blinkity Blank" pushed the boundaries of visual and auditory art in animation. McLaren’s visionary approach influenced generations of filmmakers and established him as a leading figure in avant-garde cinema. He continued to experiment with multimedia art until his death in 1987.

Born in 1930 in Vienna, Friedrich Gulda won the Beethoven piano competition in 1950, launching his career as a concert pianist. He became known for interpretations of Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach, performing in leading concert halls worldwide. Gulda also embraced jazz, collaborating with musicians like Joe Zawinul and recording acclaimed jazz albums. His compositions spanned classical forms and experimental pieces, showcasing his versatility and creative curiosity. A passionate educator, he taught masterclasses and influenced generations of pianists with his unconventional approach. He died in 2000, remembered as a boundary-breaking artist who defied musical categories.