Arturo Di Modica was an Italian-American sculptor, best known for his iconic bronze statue, Charging Bull, which symbolizes financial optimism and strength. He created this piece in 1989 and installed it near the New York Stock Exchange without permission, making it a symbol of the financial district. Born on January 26, 1941, in Pachino, Sicily, Di Modica moved to the United States in the 1970s. He studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence and later became a prominent figure in the art world, contributing to various public art projects and exhibitions throughout his career.