Neda Walburga Alhilali

(née Walburga Luise Hedwig Marianne Böhm)

Neda Walburga Alhilali, also known as Neda Al-Hilali, passed away peacefully in Mexico on September 13, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born on November 26, 1938, in Cheb, Czechoslovakia, to Johann and Margarethe Böhm, Neda spent her early years in Hengersberg, Germany. She was predeceased by her brothers, Ludwig and Christoph, and her sisters, Ursula, Liebgard, and Wilfrieda.

Neda pursued her studies at the Kunstakademie München in Munich before moving to London, England, where she attended St. Martin’s School of Art. There, she met her future husband, Khalid Alhilali. They married in 1959 and lived in Baghdad, Iraq, for three years before relocating to Los Angeles, California, where both pursued graduate studies at UCLA. Neda and Khalid later divorced.

She is survived by her son, Ali, his wife Ena; Neda’s daughter, Yasemi; her granddaughters, Marisa and Jessica; and two great-grandchildren.

Neda built a distinguished career as an artist, professor, and mentor. Recognized early on as a visionary in her field, she became known for her innovative approaches to textile arts, developing new techniques and materials that were celebrated in galleries and exhibitions worldwide. Her works have been recognized by the Smithsonian, which included pieces in its Archives of American Art collection. She also had a long and impactful teaching career, serving as professor in residence at Scripps Graduate College in Claremont, California, where she inspired generations of students. She also taught art at UCLA, CalState LA, CalState Fullerton and taught textile art workshops across the US, Europe, Japan and Hong Kong.

Beyond her professional achievements, Neda was known for her boundless creativity, generosity, and joy. She often said that during life’s most difficult times, she committed herself to creating her most beautiful art, with the goal of bringing optimism and happiness to others. Even after retiring, she continued to paint, draw, and explore new ideas, drawing inspiration from her beloved garden, books, and travels.

Her life was one of transformation, resilience, and celebration. She will be remembered not only for her extraordinary contributions to the art world but also for the warmth she shared with family, friends, students, and all who knew her.

May her memory be a blessing, and may she rest in peace.

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