July 31

Alessandro Algardi was a leading Baroque artist in Rome, celebrated for his refined and classical style. He served as court sculptor to Pope Innocent X and produced monumental works for St. Peter's Basilica. His notable sculptures include the high-relief 'The Death of St. Agnes' and the papal monument of Innocent X. Algardi's approach emphasized calm dignity over dramatic theatricality, distinguishing him from his contemporaries. His legacy influenced European sculpture through his pupils and the dissemination of his works across Italy.

Jean Denis Attiret joined the Jesuit China mission in the 1730s and became court painter to Emperor Qianlong. He introduced European perspective and oil painting methods to Chinese imperial workshops. Attiret's works include portraits of the emperor and decorative murals in the Forbidden City. He skillfully blended Western realism with traditional Chinese themes, influencing Qing dynasty art. His artistic exchange helped establish a unique Sino-European style during the 18th century.

Ignacio Cervantes was a Cuban pianist and composer recognized for blending European Romantic styles with Afro-Cuban rhythms. Trained in Europe, he returned to Cuba and became a leading figure in the island's musical renaissance. Cervantes composed numerous danzas, salon pieces that celebrated Cuban identity and became staples of piano repertoire. He also taught piano at the National Conservatory of Havana, mentoring a generation of Cuban musicians. His works reflect a rich fusion of cultural influences and remain popular in concert halls. Cervantes's dedication to elevating Cuban music established him as a pioneer of nationalist composition in Latin America until his death in 1905.

Mary Vaux Walcott was an American painter and illustrator renowned for her botanical art. She created over 400 watercolor paintings of wildflowers known for their scientific accuracy. Her work gained acclaim through publication by the Smithsonian Institution. She served as the second woman trustee of the Smithsonian. She was married to paleontologist Charles Doolittle Walcott, following him on numerous expeditions.

Born Gaston Duchamp, he adopted the pseudonym Jacques Villon early in his artistic career. He was a leading figure in the development of Cubist art alongside contemporaries like Jean Metzinger. Villon's work spanned etching, lithography, and painting, often featuring geometric abstraction and bold experimentation. He exhibited regularly at the Salon des Indépendants and influenced younger generations of artists. In recognition of his contributions, he received the Grand Prix National des Arts and Letters.

Quimby joined Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in the 1920s and headed its animation department from 1937. He greenlit and produced the award-winning Tom and Jerry shorts created by Hanna and Barbera. Under his leadership, the studio won multiple Academy Awards for Animated Short Film. Despite criticisms that he took credit for creative work, his managerial skills ensured high production values. Quimby retired in 1955 but left a lasting impact on the golden age of American animation.

Jean Dubuffet (1901-1985) was a pioneering French artist who coined the term Art Brut to describe outsider art. Rejecting conventional aesthetic standards, he championed the raw creativity of psychiatric patients and children. His works include paintings, sculptures, and assemblages featuring unconventional materials like tar and pebbles. Dubuffet’s style influenced post-war European art and laid the groundwork for the outsider art movement. He exhibited widely across Europe and the United States, earning international acclaim. His legacy endures in major collections at the Centre Pompidou and beyond.

George Liberace (1911-1983) was an American violinist, conductor, and the elder brother of performer Liberace. He served as musical director for his brother’s television shows, leading the Liberace Orchestra. A talented musician in his own right, George arranged many of the performances that showcased popular and classical repertoire. He played a key role in managing Liberace’s career, organizing tours and publicity events. After retiring from performance, he supported music education through charitable activities. His dedication to music helped shape the distinctive showmanship that defined his brother’s legacy.

Paul J. Christiansen studied music at St. Olaf College and the Juilliard School. In 1938, he founded the Concordia Choir at Concordia College, Moorhead, nurturing choral excellence for decades. His compositions and arrangements of sacred and secular choral works are performed worldwide. A dedicated educator, he influenced generations of musicians through his teaching and workshops. Christiansen's legacy endures in modern choral repertoire and performance standards.

Born Henry Jones, he gained recognition in the 1940s for his elegant and swinging piano technique. Hank Jones recorded over 50 albums as a leader and performed with jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Ella Fitzgerald. He was inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame for his contributions to the art form. His versatility made him a first-call session musician across jazz, pop, and classical projects. Jones continued performing well into his 90s, leaving a rich legacy in jazz history.

Born in Istanbul in 1923, Ertegun moved to the United States after World War II. He co-founded Atlantic Records in 1947, signing and promoting artists in jazz, R&B, and rock. Ertegun worked with legends such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Led Zeppelin. His vision transformed Atlantic into one of the most influential labels in music history. He also composed songs under the name A. Nugetre and supported emerging talent. Ertegun received numerous honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He died in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Carmel Quinn gained fame in the 1950s as a charismatic performer on Arthur Godfrey's radio and television shows. Her warm vocals and engaging personality captivated audiences across the United States. She released several music albums showcasing her Irish heritage and popular standards. Quinn also appeared on Broadway and in a variety of television specials throughout her career. Later in life, she authored memoirs and columns reflecting on her experiences in show business, earning admiration for her storytelling and wit.