Painting a Life: Documenting an Approach to Painting
Two DVD set by David Jon Kassan
We often discuss the need for artists to document their methods, yet finding comprehensive, practical demonstrations—a true "field report"—is a rarity. This seven-hour instructional documentary, Painting a Life by David Jon Kassan, is precisely that rare find.
It functions less as a typical demonstration and more as a deep analysis of the full philosophical and technical process. Kassan not only shows you what to do; he articulates the choices behind broken color, value shifts, and brushstroke—essential factors that elevate realism beyond mere rendering.
If your goal is to achieve a deeper practical understanding of portraiture, this DVD set is a concentrated resource.
The Three Core Lessons Contained in this Program:
This documentary covers the entire creative journey, from concept to final signature. Here are the key technical and philosophical areas you can expect to master:
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Color and Value as Structure: Kassan emphasizes color temperature, value, and texture to build form, moving beyond flat applications. You will learn how to train your eye to see the subtle color shifts and transitions that define life-like skin tone.
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Materials as Essential Tools: The documentary provides a full discussion of his materials (brushes, mediums, paints, etc.) and a detailed breakdown of studio setup and lighting. Crucially, it includes a field trip and discussion with Gail Spiegel of Vasari Classic Oil Colors, giving you high-value insights directly from the source.
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The Philosophical Underpainting: This documentary uniquely weaves in Kassan’s philosophy, examining his approach to subject (Janice Lutrec) and the necessity of slowing things down to carefully observe life. It’s the closest you can get to sitting next to a master painter and hearing his thoughts in the wild as he works.
This is an indispensable resource for any realist painter looking to move beyond simple technique and truly document a life on canvas.
A seven-hour program in excellent, like-new condition, documenting a comprehensive approach to painting.