Anneographies » 1907

November 14 Birthday: William Steig

Anne — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 14:19:59 +0000

William Steig, writer and illustrator

Nov. 14, 1907-Oct. 3, 2003

When Everyone Wore a Hat by William Steig (Joanna Colter Books, 2003)

In this picture book autobiography, Steig looked at the year he was eight, when the world was at war, and he had dreams for the future.

A cartoonist for the New Yorker, Steig was in his 60s when he began writing and illustrating children’s books. Stop by the New York Times for an art review on Steig and a link to the slide show on Steig’s work at the Jewish Museum.

October 13 Birthday: Art Tatum

Anne — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:48:37 +0000

Art Tatum, musician

Oct. 13, 1907-Nov. 5, 1956

Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum by Robert Andrew Parker (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2008)

Mostly self-taught, Tatum began playing the piano as a young child. Because of his poor eyesight, he could not participate in many activities. The piano was his refuge and strength. Word spread and soon he was playing in cafes, bars and the local radio station in his hometown of Toledo. Written in first person, this is a humble story of a gifted child who becomes one of the all-time jazz greats.

Watch and listen to Art Tatum play “Humoresque” on YouTube, his signature tune.

July 6 Birthday: Frida Kahlo

Anne — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:12:59 +0000

Frida Kahlo, artist

July 6, 1907-July 13, 1954

Frida by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Ana Juan (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2002)

Kahlo, a Mexican painter, often used herself as the subject of her work. She was married to muralist Diego Rivera.

The Tate Gallery in London posts an exhibit and information about Kahlo on its site.