Sher, Alvin I.

Alvin I. Sher passed away peacefully at his home in Niantic on Saturday, October 15, 2022 with his family at his side. He was 84. Sculptor, teacher, traveler, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Alvin left his mark on the world through his art, teaching, leadership, and the many lives he touched with his friendship, talent, intellect, and humor. Alvin deeply believed in education, social justice, a good scotch, up-to-date sailing charts, and the power of art to change lives.

Born in Philadelphia, PA on December 3, 1937 to Sam and Leah (Chalker) Sher, Alvin graduated from the Philadelphia College of Art, earned an MFA from Indiana University, and was later a Fulbright grant recipient. In his early teaching career Alvin taught art at the University of London, then later at Hobart and Williams College, Geneva, NY, where he established sculpture, visiting artist, and study abroad programs. He directed The New York Arts Program for over 25 years where he was instrumental in establishing the programs' building and dormitory in Chelsea.

Alvin was a prolific artist, exhibiting his work in over 200 exhibitions, including 25 solo shows during a career that spanned over 60 years. He was an early adaptor of computer-aided design in art, and continually challenged himself to learn and create works in the latest technologies. His works are in the permanent collections of the Lyman Allyn museum, the Worcester Museum of Art and numerous municipalities and college campuses throughout the United States. Alvin was also a long-time member of the Sculptors Guild of New York, where he held a variety of leadership positions. Deep friendships and a love of sailing drew Alvin to southeastern Connecticut where he lived for over 45 years. He was a long-time devoted member of the East Lyme Democrats, Shoreline Sailing Club and was CoPresident of Temple Emanu-El Brotherhood.

He is survived by his wife Patrica; sons Sam Sher, Shoreline, WA and Ira Sher, Germantown, NY; grandchildren Asher Wolff, Greenville, MA and Margot Sher, Germantown NY; brothers Ted Sher (Lois), New Bern NC and Bernie Sher (Susan), Baltimore MD and numerous beloved nephews, nieces, cousins and treasured former students. His brother Fred and parents predecease him.

A gathering of remembrance will take place on Sunday October 23rd, 1pm (TODAY) at Temple Emanu-El, 29 Dayton Rd, Waterford, CT 06385. Donations in his memory may be made to the ACLU.

Please sign guestbook at courant.com/obituaries