Martha D. Jackson

Martha Jackson, painter, designer, teacher, and mentor, died peacefully Wednesday, September 22, 2004 at her home in Petersburg, IL. The Cincinnati, OH native was 44 years old. Born in 1959 to Lillian and Ralph C. Jackson, Martha earned a bachelors degree in fine arts from The Columbus College of Art and Design in 1982. Over the next decade, Martha spent time honing her skills, ultimately earning her Masters Degree in Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA in 1988. Martha’s creative energy has touched and influenced many throughout the years. Her first One Artist Show was held at UP Gallery at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, PA in 1989. This achievement was followed by many more. Her body of work spans many private and public collections around the world. Martha reached out and expressed her ideas and beliefs without hesitation. She understood the meaning of life long learning and hard work. She recognized talent in others, and encouraged those around her to recognize and develop their special gifts. This belief system guided her into teaching positions at Carnegie Mellon University and The University of Pittsburgh. After moving to Illinois, Martha’s goal was to bring meaningful and avant-garde works of art to the Springfield Community. She opened and currated City Arts Venue, a contemporary arts center from 2000-2002. With a strong spiritual center, and a fascination with nature’s regenerative power, Martha’s life and work were an expression of this foundation. She shared her life, her humor and her love with her partner of 29 years, Linda Nordeman. Martha spent her last years working in her home in Petersburg. She devoted her life to her work, gardens, friends and family. She will be missed by all whom she has touched over the years, but she will never be forgotten. She is survived by her partner: Linda Nordeman of Petersburg; two sisters: Bev (husband, David) Durbin and Gail Jacobs; two brothers: Ralph E. Jackson and Jay Jackson all of Cincinnati, OH; two nieces and six nephews. Cremation will be accorded by the Cremation Tribute Center. Memorial Contributions may be made to Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry, Roswell Park Cancer Institue, Elm & Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263. The family of Martha D. Jackson is being served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield.