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Martin was a largely self-taught artist whose work is characterized by strong draftsmanship and an emphasis on the human figure. While working for Life magazine, Martin was sent to document the North African campaign as an artist-correspondent during World War II. During this period (especially around 1942–43), he produced numerous sketches and later studio works based on what he observed—soldiers, local environments, and civilians. His images were not limited to combat; they often included everyday life in the regions where U.S. troops were stationed.
"Arab Children" likely stems from these wartime observations. It reflects his interest in humanizing the broader context of war by depicting local people—particularly children—whose lives were shaped by the presence of military conflict. Martin’s work tended to portray figures in situations of tension, vulnerability, or resilience, even outside direct scenes of battle. His compositions often convey psychological intensity, even in seemingly simple scenes. Here, the children are depicted with directness and empathy.
Lithography allowed Martin to translate his quick, expressive sketches into widely distributed images. In this medium, he utilized tonal contrasts and fluid line work, capturing both immediacy and atmosphere. Like many of his prints, "Arab Children" reflects Martin’s ability to balance documentary observation with a deeply felt sense of humanity.