July 24

Born in Antwerp in 1542, Hoefnagel mastered watercolor and gouache to depict plants, animals, and insects with scientific precision. He contributed illuminations to manuscripts commissioned by European nobility, blending art with the emerging spirit of naturalism. His collaborations include the 'Mira calligraphiae monumenta' and the 'Archetypa studiaque Patris Georgii Hoefnagel'. His work influenced the development of botanical illustration and set a standard for merging artistic and scientific observation. He spent his later years in Frankfurt, where he died in 1601, leaving a lasting legacy in both art and natural history.

Benedetto Marcello (1686–1739) was a Venetian composer whose music epitomized the refined style of the early Baroque era. He produced a diverse body of sacred vocal music, including psalm settings noted for their lyrical grace. Marcello also authored 'Il teatro alla moda', a satirical critique of contemporary opera in Venice. As an educator, he guided members of the nobility and aspiring musicians, shaping musical pedagogy of his time. His compositions blend expressive melodies with technical intricacy, attracting renewed interest from performers today. Marcello's legacy endures in the continued performance of his works in concert halls around the world.

Arkhip Kuindzhi (1841–1910) was a pioneering landscape artist associated with the Peredvizhniki (Wanderers) movement in Russia. He captured the majesty of natural scenes through bold compositions and innovative lighting effects. Kuindzhi's signature work, 'Moonlit Night on the Dnieper', exemplifies his mastery of atmospheric mood and luminosity. He held influential exhibitions that challenged artistic conventions and inspired a generation of painters. Kuindzhi also taught at the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts, mentoring talented students. His paintings continue to be celebrated for their poetic vision and technical brilliance.

Born Léonie Bathiat in 1898, Arletty rose to fame in the 1930s with her charismatic screen presence. She starred in classics such as Hôtel du Nord (1938) and Les Enfants du Paradis (1945), becoming a symbol of French cinema's golden age. Alongside her acting career, she released several records showcasing her melodic voice. During World War II, her personal life sparked controversy but did little to dim her stardom. Arletty's legacy endures through her timeless performances and her influence on generations of performers.

Helen Cordero was born in 1915 in Cochiti Pueblo, New Mexico, where she learned traditional pottery techniques from her family. In 1964, she crafted the first 'Storyteller' figure to honor her grandfather's storytelling heritage, sparking a new trend in Native American art. Her designs featured detailed clay figures arranged on a seated figure, symbolizing the passing of oral tradition. Cordero's work gained widespread acclaim and was exhibited internationally. She inspired generations of potters and played a key role in preserving Pueblo pottery traditions.

Born in 1908 in London, George Rodger began his career as a photographer after serving in World War II. His powerful images of liberated concentration camps and war-torn Europe brought the realities of conflict to a global audience. In 1947, he co-founded Magnum Photos alongside legends like Robert Capa and Henri Cartier-Bresson, shaping the future of photojournalism. Rodger later turned his lens to Africa, documenting traditional life and tribal cultures over many years. His work appeared in major publications and continues to influence generations of photographers.

Born in 1931 in Quebec, Georges Dor began his career as a singer-songwriter before turning to theatre. He wrote successful plays and musicals that captured the spirit of Quebecois life, blending humor and lyricism. Dor composed memorable songs that became staples of local radio and stage productions. His works earned him multiple awards and cemented his reputation as a versatile creator. He also mentored young artists and contributed to the development of the performing arts community in Quebec.

Nicola Zaccaria was born in Greece in 1923. He embarked on his professional opera career in the 1950s. Zaccaria performed leading bass roles at major European opera houses. He toured internationally, earning acclaim for his resonant voice and dramatic presence. His recordings captured his artistry and continue to inspire bass singers worldwide.

Norman Dello Joio was born in 1913 in New York City. He studied composition under Paul Hindemith at the Juilliard School. Dello Joio served in the U.S. Army during World War II before resuming his musical career. He composed orchestral, choral, and solo piano pieces celebrated for their lush harmonies and rhythmic vitality. In 1957, he received the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his Meditations on Ecclesiastes. Dello Joio taught composition at the Mannes College of Music, influencing generations of students. His works remain popular in concert repertoire and continue to inspire performers.

Dan Peek was born in 1950 in the Panama Canal Zone. He co-founded the band America in the late 1960s alongside his brother and a friend. Peek contributed vocals, guitar, and songwriting to hits like 'A Horse with No Name.' After leaving the band in 1977, he pursued a successful solo career in contemporary Christian music. His solo albums garnered acclaim within the Christian music community. Peek continued to perform and record until his death in 2011, influencing both rock and Christian genres.

Harald Johnsen was born in Norway in 1970. He emerged as a prominent bassist in the Norwegian jazz scene during the 1990s. Johnsen collaborated with leading jazz musicians and performed at major international festivals. His compositions blended traditional jazz elements with Nordic musical influences. Johnsen's recordings received praise for their emotional depth and technical mastery. He remained active as a performer and composer until his untimely death in 2011.

Larry Hoppen was a founding member of the band Orleans, which rose to fame in the mid-1970s with chart-topping singles such as "Still the One" and "Dance with Me." As the band's lead guitarist and vocalist, Hoppen contributed distinctive melodies and harmonies that defined their signature soft rock sound. The group amassed a dedicated fan base and achieved critical acclaim for their musicianship. Hoppen's songwriting and guitar work helped shape the band's creative direction. He continued to perform and record with Orleans for decades, leaving a legacy of timeless hits.