feature
July 31, 2025
By ArtCenter Staff

ArtCenter College of Design Trustee Emeritus Frederick M. Nicholas passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 105. A decorated war hero, attorney, developer, civic leader, philanthropist and advocate for the arts, Nicholas served on ArtCenter’s Board of Trustees as an Honorary Trustee from 2001 to 2004. He was then elected as a trustee from 2004 to 2009 and was named Trustee Emeritus in 2009.

“Fred left an indelible mark on Los Angeles and brought his wisdom and passion for art and design to ArtCenter and its mission,” said Karen Hofmann, president and CEO of ArtCenter. “His role in establishing our South Campus was a transformational moment in our history, and his legacy lives on at the College.”

A longtime ArtCenter supporter and champion, Nicholas was instrumental in negotiating the acquisition of the building at 950 South Raymond Avenue in Pasadena, marking the beginning of the College’s South Campus. Today, the building is a hub for creativity, housing the Mullin Transportation Design Center and the Hoffmitz Milken Center for Typography, as well as classrooms, galleries and public spaces that further the College’s commitment to education, innovation and community. 

“Fred was just a beautiful, warm person and a good friend. Our mutual love of creativity and the arts was bonding,” recalls ArtCenter Trustee Emeritus Alyce de Roulet Williamson. “I was touched by his tremendous support for The Williamson Gallery. Despite his accomplishments, he was a humble man, and he will be missed.”

Nicholas had a remarkable career as a developer and legal counselor, shaping major civic and cultural projects in Los Angeles. In addition to his work as an ArtCenter trustee, he served on numerous boards, including the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation, the American Federation of the Arts, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association. In addition, he served as a principal advisor to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Santa Monica Museum. Known as “Mr. Downtown Culture,” he was instrumental in the development and construction of the Museum of Contemporary Art’s two downtown Los Angeles facilities, including MOCA’s Grand Avenue building and The Geffen Contemporary. He was also the first Chairman of the Walt Disney Concert Hall Committee, where he guided the development of the landmark building project, including the selection of architect Frank Gehry and acoustician Dr. Minoru Nagata. 

As part of a legal career spanning six decades, he founded Public Counsel, the largest pro-bono law firm in the country, committed to providing free legal assistance to those in need and vulnerable populations. Each year, the organization serves more than 12,000 individuals, including small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Nicholas believed that access to justice was a fundamental human right, not a privilege, and worked tirelessly to uphold that belief. 

Throughout his life, Nicholas was a guiding force in the art world. He provided legal representation for numerous galleries and artists and was an avid collector, acquiring works by iconic American painters, such as Andy Warhol, Frank Stella and Robert Rauschenberg. He also served as the administrator of the Sam Francis estate, facilitating a milestone solo retrospective in memoriam which traveled internationally. 

Nicholas’ life of service started in the military, serving in the U.S. Army during World War II in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, Southern France and the Philippines. He served as a platoon leader, company commander and ended his service as a captain. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for bravery during his service. 

Nicholas is survived by his children, Deborah, Jan and Anthony; his daughter-in-law Mona; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Helen Devor.