Teresa Teng: The Timeless Voice that Transcended Borders

Sade: The Unique Voice That Is Hard To Be Categorized

Zeenat Aman: The Model That Became A Bollywood Icon

Jean-Michel Basquiat: From Graffiti Artist To A Pioneer Of Modern Art

Nina Simone: The Soulful Voice of Activism and Artistry

Cher: A Multifaceted Icon of Music, Acting, and Television

Madame Nhu: Once She Was The First Lady Of Vietnam

Frida Kahlo: How A Mexican Artist Became A Symbol & Feminist Icon

Gloria Naylor: Illuminating the African-American Experience through Literature

Hema Malini: Why She's More Than The Queen Of Indian Cinema

The Iconic Life and Style of Iris Apfel

Maud Lewis: The Folk Art Legend from Nova Scotia

Lonnie Johnson: Meet The Brilliant Mind Behind the Super Soaker

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Teresa Teng was an iconic Taiwanese singer whose melodious voice captivated hearts around the world.

Teresa Teng was an iconic Taiwanese singer whose melodious voice captivated hearts around the world. Explore the profound impact of her music, her cultural significance, and the enduring legacy she left behind as a cherished symbol of cross-cultural unity and musical excellence.

Sade is the stage name of the talented artist Helen Folasade Adu.

Sade is the stage name of the talented artist Helen Folasade Adu. She makes music that delves you into a unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B, and. Uncover the enigmatic persona that has made her a revered icon in the realm of contemporary music.

Zeenat Aman, a trailblazing Bollywood icon whose beauty, talent, and charisma left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry.

Zeenat Aman is a trailblazing Bollywood icon whose beauty, talent, and charisma left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry. Explore her groundbreaking career, iconic roles, and enduring influence as a symbol of empowerment and progressive storytelling in Hindi cinema.

Jean-Michel Basquiat was  a visionary pioneer who reshaped the landscape of modern art.

Jean-Michel Basquiat was a visionary pioneer who reshaped the landscape of modern art. Delve into his vibrant and expressive works, discover the profound social and cultural commentary embedded within them, and witness the enduring legacy of an artist whose impact continues to resonate in the art world today.

Nina Simone was a trailblazing musician and activist whose soulful voice and impassioned performances brought together the realms of art and activism.

Nina Simone was a trailblazing musician and activist whose soulful voice and impassioned performances brought together the realms of art and activism. Discover the profound impact of her music, her unwavering commitment to social justice, and the enduring legacy she left behind as an icon of resilience and artistic brilliance.

Nina Simone

Cher is a legendary American singer, actress, and television personality.

Cher is a legendary American singer, actress, and television personality. Explore her remarkable contributions to music, her captivating performances on the big screen, and her enduring presence in the realm of television, as well as her iconic status as a pop culture icon with a career spanning decades.

Madame Nhu was the de facto First Lady of South Vietnam from 1955 to 1963.

Frida Kahlo was an iconic Mexican artist whose paintings continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Frida Kahlo was an iconic Mexican artist whose paintings continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide. Explore the profound personal and cultural influences that shaped her unique style, as well as the enduring impact of her work on the art world and beyond.

Gloria Naylor, a distinguished African-American author whose works shed light on the complexities of race, gender, and identity.

Gloria Naylor is a distinguished African-American author whose works shed light on the complexities of race, gender, and identity. Explore the profound impact of her writings, their exploration of African-American experiences, and Naylor's lasting contribution to contemporary literature and social discourse.

Hema Malini is a legendary Indian actress and dancer whose elegance and talent have graced the silver screen for decades.

Hema Malini is a legendary Indian actress and dancer whose elegance and talent have graced the silver screen for decades. Discover her illustrious career, iconic performances, and enduring influence on the world of Indian cinema, as well as her contributions beyond the realm of acting.

Iris Apfel, a name synonymous with vibrancy, creativity, and a fierce sense of individuality, has carved an indelible mark in the worlds of fashion and interior design. Born on August 29, 1921, in Astoria, Queens, New York, Iris Apfel's journey from a curious child fascinated by fabrics to a global fashion icon is as colorful and eclectic as the ensembles she is renowned for. Apfel died on Friday at the age of 102. She died in her home in Palm Beach, Florida.

Discover the vibrant life and iconic style of Iris Apfel, the fearless fashion maven who proved that true individuality and creativity know no age limits.

Iris Barrel Apfel was born to Samuel Barrel, a glass-and-mirror business owner, and Sadye Barrel, who ran a fashion boutique. Growing up in a household immersed in design and fashion, Iris developed an early appreciation for aesthetics. She studied art history at New York University and attended art school at the University of Wisconsin.

In 1948, Iris married Carl Apfel, a relationship that would become a lifelong partnership both personally and professionally. The couple founded Old World Weavers, a textile firm, in 1950. Their business quickly gained recognition for its exquisite fabric reproductions, attracting high-profile clients, including nine U.S. presidents from Truman to Clinton. The Apfels traveled extensively, sourcing unique textiles and artifacts, further enriching Iris's eclectic style.

Iris Apfel's fashion philosophy was simple: "More is more and less is a bore." Her style defies conventional fashion norms, characterized by bold colors, oversized accessories, and an artful mix of high and low fashion pieces. Apfel’s signature look included her large, round glasses, stacked bangles, and layers of necklaces. Her fearless approach to fashion has made her a darling of the style world, particularly among those who admire individuality over trends.

Her influence skyrocketed in 2005 when The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City featured her clothing and accessories in an exhibition titled "Rara Avis: Selections from the Iris Apfel Collection." The exhibition was a smash hit, introducing her unique style to a broader audience and solidifying her status as a fashion icon.

Even in her 100s, Iris Apfel shows no signs of slowing down. She has embraced her role as a mentor and muse in the fashion industry, collaborating with major brands such as MAC Cosmetics and designing a jewelry line for HSN. Her autobiography, "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon," published in 2018, provides an intimate look into her life and career, offering inspiration to aspiring fashionistas worldwide.

In addition to her work in fashion and design, Iris has been a vibrant presence in the media. She starred in the 2014 documentary "Iris," directed by the legendary Albert Maysles, which captures her enduring zest for life and creativity.

Iris Apfel's impact extended beyond her sartorial choices. She champions the idea of aging gracefully and stylishly, breaking the stereotype that fashion is the purview of the young. Her mantra, "It's better to be happy than well-dressed," underscores her belief that fashion should be fun, expressive, and above all, personal.

Her legacy is a testament to the power of authenticity and the joy of living a colorful life. Iris Apfel has shown that style has no age limit and that true fashion is about expressing oneself fearlessly and joyfully.

Iris Apfel’s life was a rich tapestry woven with threads of adventure, creativity, and an unabashed love for the extraordinary. She remains an enduring symbol of individuality and a beacon of inspiration for those who dare to defy convention and embrace their unique style. In a world often obsessed with conformity, Iris Apfel stands out as a true original, proving that life, like fashion, is best lived in full, vibrant color. 

Maud Lewis, a name synonymous with the vibrant and joyful world of Canadian folk art, transformed her simple, rustic surroundings into a canvas of cheerful and evocative artwork. Despite facing significant personal and physical challenges, her unyielding spirit and innate artistic talent have left an indelible mark on the art world, making her one of Canada's most beloved folk artists.

Discover the inspiring life and vibrant art of Maud Lewis, the beloved Canadian folk artist who transformed her humble home into a canvas of joy and resilience.

How Did Maud's Early Life and Challenges Shape Her Artistic Journey?

Born on March 7, 1903, in South Ohio, Nova Scotia, Maud Kathleen Dowley grew up in a loving family. From a young age, she exhibited a keen interest in art, encouraged by her mother, who taught her to paint Christmas cards. Maud's life, however, was not without hardship. She suffered from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, which severely impacted her mobility and physical appearance. These challenges, compounded by the loss of her parents in her early adulthood, forced her to rely on relatives for support.

How Did Maud Lewis Transform Her Modest Home into a Canvas for Her Art?

In 1938, Maud married Everett Lewis, a fish peddler, and moved into his small house in Marshalltown, Digby County. The house, a one-room shack without electricity or running water, became both her home and her canvas. Despite the limited resources, Maud's creative spirit thrived. She began by painting small items, such as cookie sheets and boards, and later expanded to larger surfaces, including the walls, doors, and windows of their house. Her whimsical depictions of rural life, animals, and flowers were characterized by bright colors and a childlike simplicity that resonated with viewers.

What Defines Maud Lewis's Artistic Style and What Themes Did She Often Depict?

Maud Lewis's art is often described as naïve or folk art, marked by its straightforward, unpretentious style and vibrant palette. She drew inspiration from her immediate surroundings, depicting scenes of oxen teams, cats, deer, birds, and rural landscapes with a joyful and optimistic tone. Her paintings often lacked perspective and detailed shading, focusing instead on bold outlines and blocks of bright color. This distinctive style, coupled with her charming subject matter, made her work easily recognizable and widely appreciated.

How Did Maud Lewis Achieve Recognition for Her Art and What Is Her Legacy Today?

For many years, Maud sold her paintings from her home, often for as little as two or three dollars. It wasn't until the 1960s that her work began to gain broader recognition. Interest in her art grew, leading to exhibitions at local galleries and coverage in national publications like the Toronto Star and Chatelaine magazine. Despite her growing fame, Maud remained humble and continued to live a modest life with Everett in their tiny home.

Maud Lewis passed away on July 30, 1970, but her legacy lives on. Today, her works are highly sought after, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars at auction. The house she lived in, now a part of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, has been meticulously restored and preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the world that inspired her art.

How Has Maud Lewis's Life and Work Inspired Various Forms of Media and Gained International Recognition?

Maud Lewis's life and work have inspired books, plays, and films, including the 2016 biographical drama "Maudie," starring Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawke. The film brought her story to an international audience, highlighting her remarkable resilience and the profound beauty of her art

Maud Lewis's story is one of triumph over adversity, of finding beauty and joy in the simplest aspects of life. Her art, imbued with a sense of wonder and delight, continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. Through her unwavering spirit and boundless creativity, Maud Lewis has secured her place as a cherished icon of Canadian folk art.

Lonnie Johnson is an American inventor and engineer known for his significant contributions to the fields of aerospace and thermodynamics. He was born on October 6, 1949, in Mobile, Alabama, USA. Johnson's most famous invention is the Super Soaker. You probably already know what it is: a high-powered water gun that has become a popular recreational toy since its introduction in the early 1990s.

Lonnie Johnson created the “Super Soaker” and “Nerf Gun” and was awarded $72.9M In Hasbro Settlement for unpaid royalties.⁠ But who is this iconic figure? Read on quickly to find out!

Lonnie Johnson is the brilliant inventor responsible for creating the iconic Super Soaker water gun.

As a teenager, Johnson attended Williamson High School, an all-black school in Mobile. He drew much of his inspiration from George Washington Carver, an American agricultural scientist and inventor who promoted alternative crops to cotton and methods to prevent soil depletion.



In 1968, he represented his high school at a science fair in Alabama, where he was the only black student attending the fair. It was a time when African Americans had very little presence in science. There, he presented a robot he created, which he named "Linex," taking home the first-place prize. The robot was powered by compressed air.



In 1969, shortly after graduating from high school, he attended Tuskegee University, obtaining a B.S. in mechanical engineering in 1973 and a master's degree in nuclear engineering in 1975. He also holds an honorary Ph.D. in Science from Tuskegee University. He then worked for the U.S. Air Force, where he worked on the stealth bomber program, before eventually joining NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 1979. 

During his time at NASA (1979-1991), he worked on a variety of projects, including the Air Force missions Lab, developing the nuclear power source for the Galileo mission to Jupiter, several weapons-related projects, as well as an engineer on the Mariner Mark ll Spacecraft series for the Comet Rendezvous and Saturn Orbiter Probe missions. He also worked on the stealth bomber program.

Johnson Research and Development Co., Inc.

In 1991, he founded his own company, Johnson Research and Development Co., Inc., of which he is also the president. More recently, he teamed up with scientists from both Tulane University and Tuskegee University to develop a method of transforming heat into electricity to make green energy more affordable.



As of 2022, he has three technology-development companies, Excellatron Solid State, LLC, Johnson Energy Storage, and Johnson Electro-Mechanical Systems (JEMS), operating in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. JEMS has developed the Johnson Thermo-Electrochemical Converter System (JTEC) which Popular Mechanics listed as one of the top 10 inventions of 2009. Johnson Energy Storage has developed a solid-state battery and as of early 2023 is raising funds to develop a demonstration manufacturing line.



Lonnie Johnson is a "part of a small group of African-American inventors whose work accounts for 6 percent of all U.S. patent applications".

Lonnie Johnson first conceived the Super Soaker while doing work with the U.S. Air Force. Initially called the "Power Drencher" when it first appeared in toy shops in 1990, it eventually got its trademark name after some tweaks and remarketing. Selling between $10 and $60 depending on the model, the Super Soaker took off, generating $200 million in sales in 1991. Shortly after making the deal for the Super Soaker with the Larami Corporation, Larami became a subsidiary of Hasbro Inc. in February 1995.



He tweaked the design of the water gun, replacing the water in the Super Soaker with a "toy (Nerf) projectile."



In February 2013 he filed suit against Hasbro after he discovered that he was being underpaid royalties for the Super Soaker and several Nerf line of toys. In November 2013, Johnson was awarded nearly $73 million in royalties from Hasbro Inc. in arbitration. According to Hasbro, the Super Soaker is approaching sales of $1 billion.

In addition to the Super Soaker, he holds more than 250 patents, most of which are for his Super Soaker, including innovations related to thermodynamics, energy conversion, and power generation. He has also developed technologies for heat pumps and the Johnson Thermo-Electrochemical Converter System, which has the potential for efficient energy conversion.

He has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and engineering. These include the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal. 



He received several awards from NASA for his work in spacecraft system design at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In 2008, he was awarded the Breakthrough Award from science magazine Popular Mechanics for his work related to JTEC and was inducted into the State of Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame in 2011. In 2015, the Super Soaker was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame. In 2022, Johnson was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

Johnson is actively involved in educational initiatives and has supported programs aimed at inspiring and mentoring young inventors and engineers, especially those from underrepresented communities.

Lonnie Johnson's work as an inventor and engineer has had a significant impact on various fields, and his creation of the Super Soaker has left a lasting mark on popular culture. He continues to be an influential figure in the world of science and technology.

Discover the remarkable story of Lonnie Johnson, the brilliant inventor responsible for creating the iconic Super Soaker water gun. Dive into his inspiring journey and learn about the groundbreaking inventions that have made him a true pioneer in the world of engineering and innovation.