July 21

Born in Tapiau in East Prussia, Corinth studied at the academies of Königsberg, Karlsruhe, and Munich. His early works exhibit Impressionist influences, capturing light and everyday scenes with vibrant brushwork. He co-founded the Berlin Secession in 1898, advocating modern art against academic conservatism. A severe stroke in 1911 partially paralyzed him, but he continued painting with renewed vigor. His later style featured bold colors, dynamic compositions, and expressive portraiture. Corinth's legacy endures through his contributions to German modernism and his extensive oeuvre of oils and etchings.

Born in Dunedin, O'Keeffe studied at the Dunedin School of Art before embarking on a teaching career. He became head of the art department and influenced generations of young New Zealand artists. His works range from luminous coastal scenes to intimate domestic interiors, marked by strong color and composition. O'Keeffe regularly exhibited with the Otago Art Society and at national exhibitions throughout New Zealand. Beyond teaching, he wrote essays on artistic practice and fostered the growth of local art societies. He continued painting actively until his death in 1941, leaving a lasting impact on New Zealand's art scene.

Born in Aschaffenburg and raised in Switzerland, Schwabe studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. He moved to Paris in the 1890s and became a leading figure in the Symbolist movement. His haunting works balance poetic imagery with delicate brushwork, as seen in "Death and the Gravedigger." Schwabe illustrated literary works and designed posters for the Salon de la Rose+Croix, blending art and esotericism. He taught at art schools in Geneva and exhibited widely across Europe, influencing younger artists. His legacy endures in museums that showcase his visionary approach to art and symbolism.

Born in Prague, Orlík studied at the Prague Academy of Fine Arts and later in Munich. He traveled to Japan in 1900, where he mastered traditional ukiyo-e techniques and motifs. His prints capture street scenes, geishas, and landscapes with elegant line work and subtle tones. Back in Europe, he became a sought-after portrait artist, depicting cultural figures of his era. He taught at the Prague Academy, mentoring students in etching and lithography. Orlík's fusion of Eastern artistry and Western technique marks him as a pioneer in printmaking.

Born in the Kharkiv region, Burliuk studied art in Kyiv and Odesa before moving to Moscow. He co-founded the Russian Futurist movement and published satirical poetry in avant-garde journals. His illustrations blended Cubist and Futurist elements, influencing artists across Europe. In 1922, he emigrated to the United States, where he taught, exhibited, and wrote memoirs. His charismatic personality and literary flair made him a vibrant figure in New York’s art scene. Burliuk’s work bridged Eastern European modernism with emerging American avant-garde.

Sara Dougherty Carter was born in 1898 and co-founded the legendary Carter Family alongside A.P. and Maybelle Carter, shaping the sound of early country music. Her clear vocals and autoharp playing brought timeless songs like 'Wildwood Flower' and 'Keep on the Sunny Side' to audiences nationwide. The group's recordings in the late 1920s and 1930s laid the foundation for modern country and folk music. Carter's musical legacy influenced generations of artists and helped preserve Appalachian musical traditions. After the original group's dissolution, she continued to perform and record, maintaining her status as a country music pioneer until her death in 1979.

Russell Lee was born in 1903 and became a key photographer for the Farm Security Administration during the Great Depression. His stark, empathetic portraits and documentary images captured the struggles of sharecroppers, migrant workers, and rural communities. Lee's work appeared in exhibitions and publications that shaped public understanding of economic hardship and social injustice. In addition to his FSA contributions, he produced photo-essays in Latin America and Asia, expanding his visual storytelling. His influence extended to teaching and mentoring future generations of documentary photographers. Lee died in 1986, leaving a rich archive celebrated for its historical and artistic significance.

Born in Amsterdam, he adopted the mononym Constant as his artistic signature. He co-founded the CoBrA art group, emphasizing spontaneity and experimental expression. His multimedia work spanned painting, sculpture, and visionary urban design concepts. In the 1960s he developed New Babylon, a utopian megastructure project envisioning a new society. Constant's art combined surreal imagery with social critique and imaginative forms. His creations influenced abstract expressionism and remain featured in major European galleries. He left a lasting impact on 20th-century modern art through his innovative vision.

Born in Kremenets in the Russian Empire, Stern's family emigrated to the United States. He made his solo debut at Carnegie Hall at age 15 and became a global icon. Stern performed with leading orchestras and made influential commercial recordings. He spearheaded efforts to save Carnegie Hall from demolition in the 1960s. As a teacher and mentor, he guided generations of violinists through masterclasses. His discography includes landmark interpretations of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. He received multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions.

Born in 1922 in Oklahoma, Kay Starr began singing in her teens and quickly rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s. Her distinctive blend of jazz, pop, and country influences produced chart-topping hits like "Wheel of Fortune" and "Changing Partners." Starr's powerful, emotive voice and dynamic stage presence made her a favorite in nightclubs and on radio broadcasts. She recorded dozens of albums and collaborated with jazz legends such as Charlie Barnet. In addition to her recording career, she appeared on television variety shows and toured internationally. Starr's longevity in the music industry earned her a devoted fan base and critical acclaim. She continued to perform well into her later years before passing away in 2016.

Born in 1923 in Essex, Queenie Watts began her career as a singer before transitioning to acting in the 1950s. She gained recognition for her performances in British kitchen sink dramas such as "Alfie" and "Kes." Watts also appeared on television, including roles in soap operas and variety shows. Her background as a nightclub singer informed her dynamic acting style and stage presence. In later years, she co-owned a jazz club, showcasing her own singing talent alongside up-and-coming artists. Watts's blend of musical and acting skills made her a beloved figure in British entertainment. She passed away in 1980, remembered for her vibrant performances and entrepreneurial spirit.

Born Helen Greco in 1930 in New York City, Helen Merrill adopted her stage name early in her career. She gained acclaim in the mid-1950s with her self-titled debut album for EmArcy Records. Merrill collaborated with jazz greats including Clifford Brown, Gil Evans, and Quincy Jones. Her versatile repertoire spans standards, Brazilian music, and original compositions. She continued performing and recording into the 21st century, earning international awards. Merrill's soulful interpretations and enduring passion have made her a jazz icon.