Uploaded August 2020 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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Copying a photo as a painting is not the way toward self-expression. I show you my process from separating myself from the "thing" of a photo and how I use the photo as a starting point for composition development.

Here is the blog post for this video:
davidmkessler.com/blog/2020/7/22/self-expression-vs-copying-a-photo

Online Workshops: davidmkessler.com/online-courses

"Simple Color System" Color Wheel:
davidmkessler.com/color-wheel/david-m-kesslers-simple-color-system-color-wheel

My Materials:
Paint: GOLDEN Heavy Body Acrylic Paint
Brushes: Natural Bristle: Blick Gesso Brushes from Dick Blick in 2", 2.5" and 3"
Nylon Bristle: Raphael Sepia Brushes, size 50 (2") from Jerry's Artarama
Paper: Fabriano Artistico Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper 300lb
You Can Get a List of All My Materials and Paint Colors HERE:
david-kessler.mykajabi.com/davids-materials-list

T-Shirts & Merch: If you like the shirt I'm wearing, you can get one (and others) here:
teespring.com/stores/david-m-kessler-fine-art

Website: davidmkessler.com

Instagram: instagram.com/davidmkesslerfineart

Facebook: facebook.com/davidmkesslerfineart

David is a Nationally Recognized Contemporary Painter, Workshop Instructor, Author of the book "Bigger, Faster, Fresher, Looser Abstract Painting Workbook" and founder of Abstract Painting Academy.

youtu.be/Uzzz5PGdwPY