A few more specifics about his parents.

Both are stated to have been artists although neither made a living at it. I found paintings by Owen, the father, but, none by his mother Ruth. The majority of Owen's painting is landscape.

This was the time of Picasso in France  and Matisse the expressionist painter. (click here) There wasn't much room for painters such as Owen Merton. Below is a watercolor entitled "Thames, London." Owen was the painter, but, it is fairly dry stuff.

There are some of Owen Merton's collection at the Thomas Merton Center (click here).