Australian-born Artist Behind Iconic Slayer Album Covers Passes Away

Lawrence "Larry" Carroll, the Australian-born artist behind some of Slayer's most iconic album artworks, is confirmed to have passed away at the age of 65 this week. 

As noted by Blabbermouth, Carroll's passing was confirmed by Cologne art gallery, Galerie Karsten Greve, who have represented the Melbourne-born-California-raised painter since 1999. 

Carroll created the artwork for Slayer's Reign In Blood, South Of Heaven, Seasons In The Abyss and Christ Illusion.

"[Carroll] leaves behind an intimate and melancholic body of work, a unique testimony of both a creative and deconstructive time," a statement on the Galerie Karsten Greve Facebook page reads.

"In his paintings, which often morph into objects, humble materials, forgotten fragments and the passing of time always leave their mark on the canvas. They are continuously being reinvented as every brushstroke erases the precedent."

Carroll reportedly began working with Slayer in 1986 after being contacted by Def Jam Recordings co-founder, Rick Rubin. 

In a 2010 interview with Revolver, Carroll said, "Not many art directors were lining up to ask me to illustrate the next Aerosmith or Sting album.

"I think they were afraid of what they would get. I was always told my work was too dark for most folks. So Slayer was a good fit for me."

Carroll's passing comes just months after Slayer performed their final shows in Australia.