July 11

Born in 1429 near Fiesole, Mino da Fiesole trained under his father before studying in Florence and Rome. He gained fame for his elegant marble busts of eminent figures, combining classical ideals with detailed realism. Commissioned by the Medici family and the Papacy, he contributed to significant funerary projects, including tombs for popes and nobility. His work reflects a harmonious blend of Gothic intricacies and Renaissance humanism. Mino’s artistic legacy influenced generations of sculptors and left an enduring mark on Italian art history.

Born in Milan in 1527, Giuseppe Arcimboldo served as court painter to the Habsburg emperors Maximilian II and Rudolf II. He created surreal composite portraits, such as his famed 'Four Seasons' and 'Four Elements', assembling flora, fauna, and everyday items into human likenesses. His eccentric style delighted and puzzled his contemporaries, blending naturalism with fantastical creativity. Arcimboldo’s work fell into obscurity after his death in 1593, only to be rediscovered centuries later by Surrealist artists. Today, he is celebrated for his visionary approach and his contributions to the Mannerist movement.

George Gershwin was born in 1898 in Brooklyn, New York, and became one of America's most celebrated composers. He achieved fame with popular songs like 'Swanee' and Broadway musicals such as 'Crazy for You.' Gershwin's landmark composition 'Rhapsody in Blue' fused jazz rhythms with classical forms. He also composed the opera 'Porgy and Bess,' widely regarded as a masterpiece of American music. Gershwin's innovative style influenced generations of composers and jazz musicians. His works continue to be performed worldwide, highlighting the versatility of American musical expression.

Helen Forrest (1917-1999) rose to fame as one of the leading female vocalists of the swing era. She performed with top big bands, including those led by Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and Harry James. Her warm, emotive style earned her countless hit recordings and wide popular appeal. She later enjoyed a successful solo career, appearing on radio and television. Forrest's contributions helped define the sound of 1940s American popular music. Her recordings remain classics of the big band repertoire.

Hermanus 'Herman' Brood (1946-2001) was a leading figure in Dutch rock and roll. He founded the band Herman Brood & His Wild Romance, achieving several hit records. Brood's high-energy performances and distinctive voice made him a cult icon. He was also an accomplished painter, known for his bold, colorful style. His artworks were exhibited internationally and collected by art enthusiasts. Brood's career spanned music, painting, and occasional acting, embodying a vibrant creative spirit.

Zahra Leilah Kazemi (1948-2003) was a journalist and photographer covering political events in Iran. She was detained while photographing student demonstrations outside Tehran University. Kazemi died under controversial circumstances, with official accounts disputing eyewitness reports. Her death prompted global protests and calls for justice from human rights organizations. She had previously worked in the United States and Canada, contributing to major publications. Kazemi's legacy highlights the risks faced by journalists in conflict zones.

Frances Langford rose to fame on radio programs like The Guy Lombardo Show and The Rudy Vallee Show. She appeared in films such as Yankee Doodle Dandy and Stage Door during the 1930s and 1940s. During World War II, she performed on USO tours, entertaining American troops overseas. Her warm singing voice and stage presence earned her the nickname Sweetheart of the Fighting Airmen. After the war, she hosted her own radio and television shows and released multiple albums. Langford was also a founding member of the Nolan Ryan Cancer Fund in Texas. She retired in Florida, passing away in 2005 at the age of 92, leaving a legacy of patriotic entertainment.

Bronwyn Oliver studied sculpture at the National Art School in Sydney and furthered her training in Europe. She developed a signature style using welded copper, bronze, and glass, creating organic, fluid forms. Her public artworks, such as Evening Balance and River Arch, are featured in major Australian cities. Oliver's work received both national and international acclaim for its technical mastery and aesthetic beauty. She exhibited regularly at the Art Gallery of New South Wales and represented Australia abroad. As a mentor and teacher, she influenced a generation of emerging sculptors. She tragically died in 2006 at the age of 47, leaving behind a lasting artistic legacy.

Charlie Haden was born in Shenandoah, Iowa, in 1937. He first gained prominence in the late 1950s playing with Ornette Coleman. In 1969, he co-founded the politically charged Liberation Music Orchestra. Over his career, he recorded more than 60 albums and won eight Grammy Awards. His warm tone and melodic improvisations influenced generations of musicians. Haden was also a dedicated educator at the California Institute of the Arts. He passed away on July 11, 2014, leaving a profound legacy in jazz.

Tommy Ramone was born Tamás Erdélyi in Budapest in 1949 and moved to New York as a child. In 1974, he co-founded the Ramones, providing the driving beat on their influential debut album. He later took on production duties, co-producing several of the band's seminal records. Under his real name, he also worked as a record producer for artists across various genres. In later years, he explored bluegrass music and pursued photography as an artistic outlet. Tommy Ramone passed away on July 11, 2014, leaving an indelible mark on punk rock history.