Category: Featured

Rolly Crump: Disney Imagineer Who Helped Shape Our Childhood

Born on this day February 27, 1930, Rolly Crump, an iconic Disney Imagineer, is a name that resonates profoundly in the realm of animation and design. Many of us may not readily recognize his name, but we have certainly been touched by his creative genius. Crump’s contributions as an animator and designer at Walt Disney …

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Hans Erni: A Masterful Blend of Art and Advocacy in the Modern Age

Born on this day February 21, 1909, Hans Erni, a Swiss graphic designer, painter, and sculptor, was a towering figure in the world of modern art. His contributions to contemporary art are unparalleled, with his innovative interpretations and timeless masterpieces leaving a lasting impression on the field. Erni’s works are renowned for their profound connection …

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The Enchanting Melodies of Shigeru Umebayashi

Born on this day February 19, 1951, Shigeru Umebayashi, a renowned Japanese composer, has been crafting enchanting melodies that stimulate the senses and ignite the imagination for over three decades. His work, primarily in film scores, has earned him a reputation as a masterful composer capable of conjuring the most profound emotions through his music. …

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The Colorful World of Verner Panton: Celebrating his Bold and Playful Design Philosophy

The diverse and dynamic realm of Verner Panton, a renowned architect and interior designer, is a testament to his daring and whimsical approach to design. His work, characterized by its audacious use of color and unique material combinations, continues to inspire and influence contemporary design aesthetics. Panton’s ability to challenge traditional design norms while maintaining …

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Dave Van Ronk, the Mayor of MacDougal Street

Dave Van Ronk, often referred to as the “Mayor of MacDougal Street,” was an iconic figure in the 1960s folk music scene in New York City’s Greenwich Village. Known for his raspy, gravelly voice and masterful guitar playing, Van Ronk played a pivotal role in the revitalization and popularization of traditional and folk music during …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Ivan’s Childhood

Andrei Tarkovsky, a name that resonates profoundly within the realm of cinema, is a Russian filmmaker and writer who has left deeply influenced the world of film. His oeuvre, though limited in quantity, is rich in depth and profound in its ability to stir both the mind and the heart. His works, characterized by a …

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Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning

“There it is, Wendy! Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning.” Peter Pan Today is the birthday of the Disney classic, Peter Pan, released February 5th, 1953. The Disney classic is an enduring and beloved work of animation that has captured the hearts of many across several generations. This enchanting adaptation of …

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Maki Asakawa: Honoring the Pioneer of Japanese Folk and Blues Music

Born on this day January 27, 1942, Maki Asakawa, a celebrated figure in the Japanese music industry, is hailed as a pioneer in the realms of Japanese Folk and Blues music. Her unique and influential style blended traditional Japanese music with Western blues, creating an innovative fusion that earned her acclaim both domestically and internationally. …

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Antônio Carlos Jobim: The Man Behind the Bossa Nova Revolution

Antônio Carlos Jobim, often recognized as the father of Bossa Nova, was a Brazilian composer, pianist, songwriter, arranger and singer. Born on this day January 25, 1927, his career spanned several decades and his influence on the music world was profound. In fact, many consider Jobim to be one of the great exponents of Brazilian …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Stalker

Stalker – a name that evokes a sense of intrigue, a dash of dread, and a sprinkle of curiosity. A film that has been the subject of many discussions, debates, and dissertations since its release in 1979, Stalker is a cinematic gem that continues to captivate audiences even after four decades. The man behind this …

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