Underpinning Jackson’s practice is his admiration for classical painting technique and the Old Masters. The innovative technical abilities as well as the iconic imagery produced by the great painters of the past have always been inspiring for Jackson. His early work encapsulates the desire to understand oil painting technique; to become intimate with the textures, colours and materiality of pigment. Subjects generally focus on nude figures in states of tranquil repose, indicating his future interest in exploring the emotional aspects of humanity.