April 11

Born in San Luis Potosí in 1824, Bocanegra initially studied law before turning to poetry. In 1853, he won a national contest to provide the lyrics for Mexico's national anthem, which remains a patriotic symbol. His verses blend themes of heroism, sacrifice, and national unity, resonating with generations of Mexicans. Aside from his anthem lyrics, he composed numerous poems and songs that reflect the Romantic style of his era. Bocanegra's work secured his place as a foundational figure in Mexico's literary and cultural heritage.

Born in Breslau in 1832, Lipsius studied architecture at the Royal Building Academy in Berlin. He became a professor at the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts and authored key works on Gothic and Romanesque architecture. His book 'Architectonische Vorbilder aus dem Mittelalter' provided detailed analyses of medieval construction techniques. Lipsius championed a scholarly approach to architectural restoration and influenced the historicist movement. His theoretical writings shaped European architectural education and practice in the late 19th century.

Born in 1895 in New York City, Paul Specht rose to prominence as a talented violinist and innovative bandleader. His orchestras performed in top New York hotels, theaters, and on early radio broadcasts, bringing dance music to a wide audience. Specht recorded hit records featuring jazz-influenced arrangements that captured the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. He organized successful tours of Europe, introducing American dance bands to international audiences. Specht’s work helped shape the popular music landscape before the swing era. He disbanded his orchestra in the early 1930s but left an enduring mark on American music history.

Konstantin Yuon was a leading figure in Russian Symbolism and Impressionism. He captured the luminous beauty of Russian landscapes with delicate brushwork. Yuon played a pivotal role in stage and set design for Moscow theaters. As a professor at the Moscow School of Painting, he nurtured generations of artists. His work bridged pre-revolutionary and Soviet art, earning him acclaim and official roles. He remained active in state art administration, shaping cultural policies long after the Revolution.

Axel Revold was a leading figure in Norway’s modern art movement of the early 20th century. He gained acclaim for large-scale murals, including works at the University of Oslo. Revold served as a professor at the Norwegian National Academy of Fine Arts, shaping young artists. His bold use of color and form influenced decorative painting across Scandinavia. He co-founded the art association Kunstnernes Hus and championed public art. Revold’s legacy endures in Norway’s cultural institutions and public spaces.

Born in 1898, Gilroy studied at the Royal College of Art before beginning his career in commercial art. He gained fame for creating the memorable advertising illustrations for Guinness, including the toucan campaign. Gilroy also designed promotional posters for British films, notably for Ealing Studios comedies. His bold use of color and playful imagery influenced generations of graphic designers. Throughout his career, he bridged fine art and popular culture through accessible illustrations. He passed away in 1985, leaving a legacy of enduring visual trademarks.

Bruno Hoffmann was a German musician who specialized in the glass harp, an instrument consisting of tuned wine glasses. Born in 1913, he pioneered modern techniques for performing and preserving this rare art form. He recorded and performed extensively across Europe, bringing the ethereal sound of the glass harp to concert audiences. Hoffmann transcribed works by classical composers for his instrument, expanding its repertoire. His dedication ensured the survival of the glass harp tradition until his death in 1991.

James Brown was an American actor and singer whose career spanned over four decades. He appeared in Broadway productions, films, and television shows, showcasing his versatile talent. Brown released multiple albums blending jazz, R&B, and show tunes, and toured extensively with his vocal performances. He is remembered for memorable roles in popular TV series and his contributions to American musical entertainment. His dual career in acting and singing left a lasting mark on stage and screen.

Alejandro Obregón was a seminal Colombian artist known for his expressive paintings, sculptures, and engravings. Born in 1920, he blended abstraction with figurative elements to explore themes of politics, wildlife, and Colombian heritage. Obregón's vibrant color palette and dynamic compositions earned him international recognition. He exhibited widely across Latin America and Europe, shaping the course of modern art in Colombia. His influence endures through subsequent generations of Latin American artists.

André François (1915–2005) was born in Timișoara, Romania and later moved to France. He gained renown for his witty cartoons featured in magazines like Le Figaro and The New Yorker. François's abstract paintings explored playful forms and vibrant colors, challenging artistic conventions. He expanded into sculpture, installing large-scale public works that combined whimsy and elegance. His cross-disciplinary approach influenced subsequent generations of illustrators and artists. Today, his work remains admired for its originality and lighthearted spirit.

June Pointer (1953–2006) was born in Oakland, California as the youngest of the five Pointer sisters. She formed the Pointer Sisters in 1969, blending gospel, soul, and funk into a distinctive sound. Pointer's lead vocals on hits such as Fairytale and He's So Shy earned Grammy recognition. The group achieved international success, charting hits across multiple genres and eras. Despite personal challenges, June's dedication to music never wavered, inspiring fans worldwide. Her legacy endures through the enduring popularity of the Pointer Sisters' catalog.

DeShaun Holton (1973–2006), professionally known as Proof, was born in Detroit, Michigan. He co-founded the rap collective D12, helping bring national attention to Detroit hip hop. As Eminem's close friend and collaborator, Proof's lyrical skill earned him critical acclaim. He also appeared in the film "8 Mile", portraying a gritty view of rap battles. His untimely death in 2006 shocked the music community and highlighted his importance. Proof's influence lives on through his recordings and the artists he inspired.