Fred Nall Hollis, a celebrated Alabama visual artist renowned for his diverse and genre-bending work, has passed away at the age of 76. The Eastern Shore Art Center in Fairhope, Alabama, where Hollis resided, confirmed his death on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
Born in Troy, Alabama, in 1948, Hollis developed a remarkable artistic career that spanned various mediums, including porcelain, carpet, mosaics, sculpture, and etchings. His versatility and unique approach to art earned him international recognition and a place among the most respected artists of his generation.
Hollis, who professionally went by the name "Nall," had an illustrious career that began in the early 1970s when he studied under the tutelage of Salvador Dali. This experience significantly influenced his artistic style and contributed to his growing reputation in the art world.
Throughout his career, Hollis showcased his work in over 300 solo exhibitions across the United States, France, and Italy. His art found homes in prestigious venues such as the Menton Museum of Art in France and the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy. Hollis' talent extended beyond traditional art forms; he designed costumes for the Monte Carlo Ballet and created a series of postage stamps for the Principality of Monaco.
Hollis' contributions to the art world were widely recognized. In 2018, he received Alabama's highest humanities honor when he was named the humanities fellow for the Alabama Humanities Alliance. Two years prior, in 2016, he was inducted into the Alabama Center for the Arts Hall of Fame. Troy University, his alma mater, awarded him an honorary doctoral degree in 2001 and now houses two of his works on permanent display at the NALL Museum in the International Arts Center.
The artist's legacy extends beyond his artwork. Hollis established the Nature Art and Life League Art Association, a foundation dedicated to promoting art and supporting artists. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in art education initiatives.
"The artist Nall once said that as his memories began to fade, his work brought him 'back to the eras and locations of his past.' Today, the Eastern Shore, the state of Alabama, and all of the 'locations of his past' say goodbye to a visionary."
Hollis' passing marks the end of an era for the Alabama art scene and beyond. His unique vision, which blended various artistic styles and mediums, leaves an indelible mark on the art world. From his vibrant paintings inspired by Alabama's flora and fauna to his large-scale mosaics, such as the one at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Alys Stephens Center, Hollis' work continues to captivate and inspire.
As the art community mourns the loss of this visionary artist, Fred Nall Hollis' legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, which can be found in major museums and private collections worldwide. His contributions to art and culture, both in Alabama and internationally, ensure that his influence will be felt for generations to come.