TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — The International Arts Center (IAC) is remembering the life and legacy of artist Fred “Nall” Hollis via a new exhibit.

Nall, born in Troy, Alabama, passed away Sep. 14, 2024. He was a deeply loved artist known for his symbolism in surrealism, but to Troy University and its first lady, Janice Hawkins, he was much more.

“[Nall was] really, really interesting, really crazy, really argumentative, absolute genius,” said Troy University First Lady Janice Hawkins. “I’ve never known another artist that could do everything.”

Nall’s contribution to the university goes further than being a local and a friend. The creation of the International Arts Center was fueled by his initial donations. After his death, he left his estate to the university , which led to the archival of his works.

“Its the largest gift this university has ever received,” Hawkins said.

Alongside Nall’s works, the exhibit displays other artists pieces that he kept in his personal collection.

LOOKING BACK: International Arts Center reflects on Fred ‘Nall’ Hollis’ passing and impact

“We wanted to show the works that also inspired Nall,” said Troy Universities director of the IAC, Carrie Jaxon. “It’s a liffetime of creative exploration and having the works that he collected is an important part of his artistic journey. Its not just about creating, it’s collecting and what you feel has value.”

For Jaxon and Hawkins, the value found in Nall’s work comes from the emphasis of embracing individuality and accepting differences.

Thursday, the IAC held a celebration of life for Hollis. During the event, IAC officials unveiled Collected Visions I: The Nall Archive inside the Nall Museum and Gallery.

“Nall’s archive reflects a lifetime of exploration,” Jaxon said. “I think that really comes abck and identifies with Troy University’s motivation of being Alabama’s international university.”

“We are all individuals,” Hawkins said. “We all have different beliefs. That doesn’t mean I believe mine any less. Everybody’s not going to be like you, you have to learn and accept and work together and grow.”

Nall’s ashes lie in an urn under his piece “The Alternative Southern Belle” as part of the exhibit and as an eternal reminder of his contribution to the IAC and the university as a whole.