This dynamic composition of a heroic figure in pencil and gouache is by Keith Morrow Martin (1911-1983). Martin has been classified as an abstract artist, Magic Realist, and Surrealist although he occasionally painted or drew portraits. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Martin attended the Art Institute of Chicago then traveled and studied through pre-war Europe, settling for long periods of time in Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, and Vienna. During WWII he was stationed in Iceland. After the war he returned to Paris and was one of the first American artists to exhibit in that recovering city. He traveled back to New York in the late 40s, then moved to Baltimore, Maryland where he continued to reside for 35 years. “Heroic Figure” is a composition that uses Martin’s high horizon line, typically found in his most exciting pieces from this period of his career. The figure itself is menacing, dangerous, but intriguing. Not only is the pencil work compelling, but so is the use of intense red. Martin’s works are  in numerous collections including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Smithsonian Museum of American Art in D.C., the Art Institute of Chicago, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Baltimore Museum of Art.

Initialed “KM” and dated ‘69 in center right 

Medium: graphite, gouache, paper

Paper size: 11 1/2” x 8 3/4” Size of outside frame: 23” x 19 9/16”

Year of creation: 1969

Condition: The piece is in excellent condition with no damage visible. It is housed in a custom black frame, acid free linen mats, and Museum Glass.