Fred “Nall” Hollis, a native of Troy and world-renowned artist, passed away on September 14, 2024, at his home in Fairhope. 

Nall, who showed interest in the arts and creating from a young age, was known for his surrealist paintings and engravings, portraiture, sculpture and mosaics. 

After graduating from the University of Alabama, he would go on to study art at Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he was mentored by Spanish Surrealist, Salvador Dali. Nall returned to Alabama and served as an artist-in-residence at TROY in 2000 and 2001 and was awarded a Doctor Honoris Causa. 

He donated an extensive collection of his work to the University, which became a permanent fixture in the NALL Museum, located in the International Arts Center.  

 “The IAC is honored to play a role in preserving his legacy through the permanent collection at the Nall Museum, which was graciously gifted by the artist and is housed within our center,” said Carrie Jaxon, Director and Curator of the IAC. “Since our opening in 2016, his work has inspired and captivated our visitors, offering them a deeper appreciation for his unique vision and talent. We are committed to celebrating his exceptional artwork with our community and beyond.”

As a beloved member of the Troy University community, Nall was known to be generous and showed passion for the arts that inspired students, faculty and friends.

“He was such a good teacher, and he shared his talent with others,” said Janice Hawkins. “He also took great effort and time. He always had apprentices, even when he was in France, he would bring them over and when they worked under him, they learned so much. He was one of the most generous people I’ve ever known in my life. He would give his shirt off his back if somebody needed it and he gave his artwork away freely.”

“Nall’s work, rooted in his deep connection to Alabama, reflected a profound understanding of the human condition through his bold use of color and intricate symbolism,” said Greg Skaggs, Chair for the Department of Art and Design. “We will forever cherish his legacy, both as an artist and as a mentor, whose influence will continue to resonate in our department and beyond. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”

Madison Faile, a TROY graduate and painter, remembers how Nall would help young artists as a teacher. “He was so good about naturally being a teacher and bringing people in, making them feel welcome and making you feel important,” Faile said. “He was one of those people that you learned so much from being around him, not just about art, but life in general.”

The Eastern Shore Art Center, located in Fairhope, says they were fortunate to have an international treasure to share with their artistic community.

“Nall inspired innumerable artists, of all ages and all mediums,” Adrienne Clow, Marketing & Exhibits Director for the ESAC said. “His intriguing imagery and dynamic teaching style would captivate students and art lovers. He arrested his audience when he spoke, holding them in rapt attention. As a judge for our Annual Outdoor Show, traveling artists were eager to hear his comments on their work as he welcomed them into his home studio with open arms. The words of Lewis Carroll echo in our minds when we think of the stunning visuals of Nall… ‘Curiouser and curiouser.’  We are all honored to have been able to share in that glow, even if for a short moment.”

Nall will always be remembered not only for his unique artwork, but also the impact that he made in Alabama and beyond. At this time, funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.