April 30

Francesco Primaticcio began his career in Bologna and later joined the court of King Francis I of France. He played a key role in the development of the Fontainebleau School, blending Italian elegance with French tastes. Primaticcio contributed to paintings, stuccoes, and architectural projects at the Château de Fontainebleau. His Mannerist style influenced generations of artists across Europe with its graceful figures and decorative richness. Beyond painting, he designed ornamental motifs that became hallmarks of French Renaissance art. Primaticcio's legacy endures in the sumptuous interiors he helped create for the French royal court.

Hans Poelzig (1869–1936) was a leading German architect celebrated for his bold expressionist style. He designed landmark structures such as the IG Farben Building in Frankfurt and the Großes Schauspielhaus in Berlin, featuring dramatic forms and innovative use of space. Poelzig served as director of the Breslau School of Arts and Crafts, influencing a generation of architects. His work bridged traditional craftsmanship with modernist principles, leaving a lasting mark on 20th-century architecture. Beyond buildings, he also contributed to stage design and urban planning projects. Poelzig's legacy continues to inspire architects worldwide.

Franz Lehár (1870–1948) was a Hungarian composer who became one of the most popular operetta composers of the early 20th century. His works, notably The Merry Widow, blended charming melodies with waltz rhythms, captivating audiences across Europe and America. Lehár studied at the Prague Conservatory before serving as a military band composer. His collaborations with librettists produced a series of hits that defined the Silver Age of Viennese operetta. He later conducted performances of his own works and composed symphonic pieces and film scores. Lehár's music remains a staple in operatic and concert repertoires worldwide.

Dadasaheb Phalke (1870–1944) was a pioneering Indian director, producer, and screenwriter who created India's first feature film, Raja Harishchandra, in 1913. Known as the father of Indian cinema, he established the Phalke Film Company and produced silent films that laid the foundation for a burgeoning film industry. Phalke's films combined mythological themes with innovative camera techniques and special effects. He trained actors, technicians, and craftsmen, shaping early cinematic practices in India. Despite financial challenges, his vision inspired generations of filmmakers and is celebrated annually through the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. His legacy endures as a cornerstone of Indian film history.

Born in 1878 in Płock, Witwicki studied philosophy and psychology at Jagiellonian University. He pioneered experimental psychology research, exploring human perception and thought processes. A noted translator, he introduced Greek philosophical texts to Polish audiences. As a historian, he researched the history of art and culture in Eastern Europe. Witwicki was also an accomplished painter and illustrator, exhibiting his works in Kraków. His interdisciplinary approach bridged the humanities and sciences, influencing generations of scholars. He continued teaching and writing until his death in 1948.

Born in Edinburgh in 1880 into a family of artists. Crombie gained fame through his witty cartoons published in magazines and newspapers. He created memorable characters that satirized Edwardian society. His illustrated theatrical posters captured the spirit of London’s theatre scene. Crombie’s work influenced early 20th-century graphic design and illustration. He continued to draw until his death in 1967, leaving a rich visual legacy.

Born in Portogruaro in 1883, Russolo was a leading figure of the Futurist movement. He authored the manifesto 'The Art of Noises', advocating the use of industrial sounds in music. Russolo built the 'intonarumori', instruments designed to reproduce modern noise textures. As a painter, he created vibrant works reflecting the dynamism of early 20th-century life. His experiments foreshadowed electronic music and avant-garde sound art. Russolo’s ideas continue to inspire composers and artists exploring unconventional sound.

Born in Laurens, South Carolina, Gary Davis lost his sight at a young age, but developed an exceptional talent for guitar. He became a reverend and infused his performances with spiritual fervor. Davis mastered the Piedmont blues fingerpicking style and recorded influential albums in the 1950s and 1960s. His repertoire included gospel, ragtime, and blues, showcasing dynamic rhythms and melodic complexity. He influenced numerous folk and blues artists, including Bob Dylan and Jorma Kaukonen. Davis's legacy endures through his recordings, teaching, and the continued celebration of his innovative guitar techniques.

Born in Volta Grande, Brazil, Humberto Mauro emerged as a leading figure in Brazil's silent film era. He directed critically acclaimed features blending regional folklore with innovative cinematography. Mauro's notable works include 'Thais' and 'Ganga Bruta', celebrated for their poetic visuals. He also served as a film instructor and promoted Brazilian cinema through documentaries and educational films. His contributions earned him the title 'father of Brazilian cinema' and influenced future generations of filmmakers. Mauro's legacy endures through restorations and retrospectives of his pioneering films.

F. E. McWilliam was born in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. He studied painting and sculpture at Belfast School of Art and later at Goldsmiths College in London. After WWII, he emerged as a leading sculptor blending surrealism with figurative forms. His works in bronze and stone were exhibited at the Tate Gallery and internationally. He taught sculpture at Camberwell College of Arts and Chelsea School of Art. He served as president of the Royal Society of British Sculptors. McWilliam's innovative approach and dedication to education left a lasting mark on 20th-century British art.

Levi Celerio was born in Tondo, Manila, and showed remarkable musical skill from a young age. He composed over 4,000 songs, including beloved classics like "Sa Ugoy ng Duyan". Celerio was also famous for his ability to play music using a leaf, earning him a place in the Guinness World Records. He was named National Artist of the Philippines for Music in 1997 and composed numerous film scores and stage works. His songs remain an integral part of Filipino cultural heritage.

Dorival Caymmi was born in Salvador, Bahia, and became one of Brazil's most influential artists. His evocative compositions like "O Que É Que a Baiana Tem?" captured the spirit of Afro-Brazilian culture. Caymmi was also an accomplished painter and appeared in several films. He influenced the development of bossa nova and samba, and his legacy continues through his children, notably singer Dori Caymmi. He received numerous honors for his contributions to Brazilian music and art.