Blankfort, Dorothy

Michael and Dorothy Blankfort began collecting art in the late 1950s.The couple focused on contemporary art in Los Angeles, New York, and Europe. They were both involved with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in various capacities. In 1961, they were founding members of LACMA's Modern and Contemporary Art Council (MCAC); Dorothy chaired MCAC from 1974-1976 as well as participating in and chairing the Acquisitions, Education and Membership committees; and Michael served on the Board of Trustees from 1971-1982. Upon their deaths, the couple left a generous bequest to LACMA. Michael Blankfort (1907-1982) worked as a college professor, psychologist, and writer. He wrote 13 novels, several short stories, plays, and screenplays. In 1950, he was nominated for an Oscar for the film "Broken Arrow"; his name, however, was used as a front for the blacklisted screenwriter, Albert Maltz. From 1967-1969, he served as President of the Writers Guild of America West. From 1969-1971, he served as a governor of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Dorothy Stile Blankfort (1910-1998) worked as a literary agent.

From the description of Papers of Michael and Dorothy Blankfort, 1961-1995. (Los Angeles County Museum of Art). WorldCat record id: 773207809

Biographical/Historical note

MIchael and Dorothy Blankfort began collecting art in the late 1950s. The couple focused on contemporary art in Los Angeles, New York, and Europe. They were both involved with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in various capacities. In 1961, they were founding members of LACMA's Modern and Contemporary Art Council (MCAC); Dorothy chaired MCAC from 1974-1976 as well as participating in and chairing the Acquisitions, Education and Membership committees; and Michael served on the Board of Trustees from 1971-1982. Upon their deaths, the couple left a generous bequest to LACMA.

Michael Blankfort (1907-1982) worked as a college professor, psychologist, and writer. He wrote 13 novels, several short stories, plays and screenplays. In 1950, he was nominated for an Oscar for the film "Broken Arrow"; his name, however, was used as a front for the blacklisted screenwriter, Albert Maltz. From 1967-1969 he served as President of the Writers Guild of America West. From 1969-1971 he served as a governor of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Dorothy Stile Blankfort (1910-1998) worked as a literary agent.

From the guide to the Papers of Michael and Dorothy Blankfort, 1961-1995, (Los Angeles County Museum of Art Balch Art Research Library)