Merwin Richard Altfeld, a Sunset Mesa artist of note throughout Southern California, died April 24. He was 93.
Altfeld painted in a variety of styles and genres since his teen years in Ohio right up to the last day of his life. He also taught and lectured widely on art. Altfeld’s prolific creativity resulted in numerous shows, awards and positions of honor.
His work has appeared in the San Diego International Art Show (1980, 1982, 1985, 1993, 1994), Loyola University in New Orleans (1980), the National Academy of Design in New York (1972) and the Swedish Museum in Stockholm (1972). Among his many recognitions, Altfeld received the San Diego International Silver Award in 1994 and the National Water Color Society Award in 1985. He also served as president of the National Water Color Society in 1972, and headed the Los Angeles Contemporary Arts Gallery in 1989 and 1990 and the Westwood Arts Center in 1965.
In addition to his central work as a pictorial artist, Altfeld composed music and played the piano. Meanwhile, he had a more than 50-year career as a manufacturer’s representative for lighting fixtures throughout Southern California. Also, Altfeld was active in Los Angeles Jewish Big Brothers from 1965 to 1974.
Altfeld was born Sept. 19, 1913 in Elyria, Ohio. He moved to Los Angeles with his wife and two daughters in 1946. The family relocated to Sunset Mesa in 1962.
Altfeld was predeceased by his wife of 70 years, Mildred, and is survived by his sister, Gladys Fabe, his daughters, Linda Voorsanger and Pamela Malone, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A funeral service took place April 29 at Hillside Memorial Chapel in Los Angeles.