Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Martin Jackson, ink, 1950
Untitled, by Martin Jackson, ink, 1950

Untitled is an ink print by Martin Jackson. It dates from 1950 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

About this work

Overview

Martin Jackson’s 1950 lithograph, untitled, is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Executed in black and white, the print presents a modest domestic scene rendered with a loose, gestural line quality that gives the image an unfinished, atmospheric feel.

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts a family of six gathered on a rocky riverbank beside a modest wooden house with a porch, trees, and a docked boat. The mother cradles an infant while the father stands nearby, and the children are shown in plain attire, suggesting a quiet, everyday moment in a rural setting.

Technique & Style

Jackson employed the lithographic process to achieve stark contrasts between deep shadows and illuminated areas, particularly on the river surface and the house façade. The work’s sketch‑like lines and uneven shading create a moody, almost dreamlike ambience, emphasizing the interplay of light and dark rather than precise detail.

History & Provenance

Created in 1950, the untitled lithograph entered the Museum of Modern Art’s holdings as part of its mid‑century print acquisitions. The piece reflects the post‑war interest in printmaking as a medium for exploring everyday subjects with a modernist sensibility.

Artist & collection

Artist

Martin Jackson

Martin Jackson is a British drummer who has played with several bands from Manchester, although his most successful roles were with Magazine in 1978 with the release of the influential Real Life album, and Swing Out…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museum of Modern Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.