He was an artist of a generation that was globally aware, politically active, and intensely involved with aesthetic and formal questions.
His drawings documented the Indonesian independence efforts on the battlefield, at the negotiation table, and in secret underground meetings.
Through his sketches and drawings, he immortalized several important historical events, including the sovereignty transfer from the Dutch to Indonesia in 1949.
Kerton studied at the Art Student League at New York City, where he learned from Yasuo Kuniyoshi and Harry Sternberg.
Everyday life in Indonesia became his constant theme, in which he put tones to bold colors and vivid scenery.