David Kassan-Video American Artist

[Chris Saper]

David Kassan demonstrates charcoal drawing in an8- minute video, made available on American Artists online magazine

I've watched it twice and am so inspired to get out to open studio with my charcoal sticks! I see also that one of his tools looks like a brush women use to apply blush. Believe I might have one somewhere in my make-up drawer that could be put to a better use

[Michael Georges]

Chris, this was a great video. I think he is using the brush to soften the overall effect. Very instructional.

[Christy Talbott]

It's an excellent video, thank you Chris!

[Thomasin Dewhurst]

Thanks for the link (his hands are kept so immaculately clean!). I think, though, that he could have left so much more of his initial strokes - they are more confident and appealing than the rubbings with the brush.

[Chris Saper]

Actually, I liked David's drawing at every stage. He has tremendous control over his media, not just charcoal and pencil, but oil as well.

I saw a little graphite (? I think) head demo he did at this past PSA meeting in the Exhibitors' hall - unfortunately I didn't realize that the demo was happening until after the fact. It was gorgeous.

If David doesn't mind, I may have an image of the PSA drawing in my files that I'll post.

[Carol Norton]

Fascinating demo. The music set my teeth on edge and heart beat accelerated. (nearly called the cardiologist!!!)

Hey, that's probably what was intended. I guess serenity isn't the total answer. E-N-E-R-G-Y may be what's needed to produce a dynamic piece like this. Pretty fun, I'd say.

Oh, my, is my age showing??? Do you suppose???

[Chris Saper]

Actually, the demo I was thinking of was drawn by David just prior to the PSA event. Charcoal.

Regarding the video, David said it was impromptu, filmed by one of his students, hence the "Blair Witch Project" effect