Essays
These essays are the conversations behind my paintings, offering a deeper understanding of the ideas explored in The Work. They explore creativity, observation, memory, process, music, culture, and the experiences that continue shaping my work as a contemporary abstract painter. More than a companion to the paintings themselves, they form an ongoing body of work exploring art, creativity, and the lifelong pursuit of learning to see.
Written alongside my paintings as a contemporary abstract painter in Austin, Texas, these essays invite you to explore not only what I create, but the ideas that continue shaping my work. Begin with Christopher's Selects or explore the complete library in The Essays →
Christopher’s Selects
If I could recommend only five essays from this library, these would be my choices. Together, they introduce the person behind the paintings, the journey that led me here, and the philosophy that continues shaping my work.
“Essential Essays” introduces the philosophy behind this library, explaining why these essays exist, how they're connected, and why I believe paintings and writing are part of the same ongoing conversation. Read Essential Essays →
"Meet Christopher Durst" offers a personal introduction to the experiences, influences, and creative journey that continue shaping both my paintings and the ideas explored throughout this library. Read Meet Christopher Durst →
“From Witness to Maker” traces my evolution from documenting the world through photography to creating it through paint, exploring the experiences and philosophy that continue to shape my practice. Read From Witness to Maker →
“The Labor Behind the Myth” explores the quiet discipline behind artistic practice, challenging the mythology of inspiration and revealing the unseen work that gives art its lasting power. Read The Labor Behind the Myth →
“The Work” explores the philosophy, materials, and visual language behind my paintings, examining how abstraction, texture, scale, and process come together to create works that invite reflection rather than explanation. Read The Work →
From here, explore the rest of the essay library wherever your curiosity leads you.
Identity & Practice
Before you can fully understand my paintings, it helps to understand the experiences that shaped the person creating them. Here, I share the journey that led me to become a contemporary abstract painter in Austin, Texas, the philosophy behind my work, and the ideas that continue influencing both my paintings and every chapter that follows in this library.
Identity & Practice
Artist Statement
Meet Christopher Durst
Christopher Durst: Professional Biography
The Artist Behind the Work: Christopher Durst
The Journey From Photographer to Painter
From Photography to Painting
Why I Chose Austin as a Creative Home
Why I Chose Abstraction
Why I Paint Abstractly
Contemporary Artist
Contemporary Abstract Artist
Abstract Artist
Abstract Painter
Mixed Media Artist
American Abstract Artist
Texas Abstract Artist
Austin Abstract Artist
Abstract Painter in Austin Texas
The Work
Every painting begins as a conversation rather than a plan. Here, I take you inside my work, exploring the ideas, materials, and decisions behind my contemporary abstract paintings, from large-scale canvases and mixed media to texture, process, and the visual language that continues taking shape with every painting I create.
The Work
Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Original Abstract Paintings
Large Abstract Paintings
Large Scale Abstract Art
Large Scale Abstract Paintings
Large Scale Contemporary Art
Large Contemporary Paintings for Modern Interiors
Why Large Scale Matters to Me
Working on Large Scale Canvases
Mixed Media Abstract Art
Mixed Media Painting Process
Materials Used in My Paintings
Textured Abstract Art
Understanding the Work
I've never believed abstract painting should come with a single explanation. Instead, I invite you to explore how texture, atmosphere, scale, and emotional connection shape my work, and why I believe contemporary abstract painting is experienced as much through feeling as it is through interpretation.
Understanding the Work
Understanding Abstract Art
How to Understand Contemporary Abstract Painting
Why Abstract Art Matters
Cultural Abstract Art
The Creative Process Behind Abstract Art
The Role of Texture in Contemporary Painting
Texture as Visual Language
Atmosphere in Contemporary Painting
Why Scale Matters in Art
How Abstract Art Changes a Space
Atmosphere, Scale, and Presence
Abstract Art and Emotional Connection
Why Original Art Matters
Texture & Process
Some of the most important parts of a painting are the ones that disappear beneath the surface. Here, I invite you inside my studio, from observation and experimentation to layering, revision, and the creative process that shapes each painting long before it's finished.
Texture & Process
Inside The Studio
My Studio Practice
How I Build a Painting
The Role of Materials in My Work
Creativity, Curiosity, and Process
Observation as a Creative Practice
Creativity and Observation
Learning to See
Paying Attention
Texture, Atmosphere, and Human Experience
Layering, Revision, and Surface
Why Scale Matters in Contemporary Abstract Painting
The Importance of Scale in My Studio Practice
The Evolution of an Abstract Painting
When Is a Painting Finished?
The Importance of Process in Contemporary Art
Influences & Perspective
Everything I create is shaped by the places I've been, the people I've met, and the experiences I've carried with me. Here, I reflect on the memories, music, travel, photography, and moments of everyday observation that continue finding their way into my paintings, often in ways I never expect.
Influences & Perspective
Why I Make Art
What Inspires My Paintings
Atmosphere and Memory
The Spaces Between Moments
Art, Memory, and Place
Art as a Reflection of Experience
The Role of Experience in Abstract Painting
The Influence of Travel on My Work
From Rock Photography to Large Scale Abstraction
The Difference Between Documenting and Creating
How Photography Still Influences My Painting
Why I Left Photography for Painting
Lessons From Photographing Musicians
What Touring Taught Me About Creativity
What I Learned From Life On The Road
Backstage, Between Cities, and In Between Moments
Austin’s Creative Culture and My Work
Why Austin Inspires My Paintings
Art, Music & Culture
Long before I became a painter, I learned to see the world through music and the creative communities that surrounded it. Here, I explore how rhythm, improvisation, and years spent documenting musicians continue influencing the way I approach contemporary abstract painting, revealing the connections between sound, culture, and visual expression.
Art, Music & Culture
The Influence of Music on My Paintings
Music Culture and Abstract Art
Music-Inspired Abstract Art
The Influence of Live Music on My Work
What Music Taught Me About Visual Composition
Rhythm in Abstract Painting
Finding Visual Rhythm Through Painting
Painting and Improvisation
Austin Art Guide
I've been fortunate to call Austin home, and its creative community has played an important role in shaping both my work and my perspective as a contemporary abstract painter. Here, I share the galleries, museums, studios, artists, and cultural experiences that make Austin one of the country's most inspiring cities for discovering and collecting contemporary art.
Austin Art Guide
Understanding Austin’s Art Scene
Contemporary Art in Austin
Texas Contemporary Art
The Austin Creative Community
Being an Artist in Austin, Texas
Austin Art Galleries
Austin Art Museums
Public Art in Austin
How to Visit an Art Gallery
What Makes a Great Art Gallery?
Austin Art Districts & Neighborhoods
Downtown Austin Art Guide
East Austin Art Guide
Canopy Arts District
Springdale Arts District
South Congress Art Guide
West Austin Art Guide
Events, Festivals & Studio Tours
Austin Gallery Openings
Austin Art Exhibitions
Austin Art Festivals
First Thursdays in Austin
First Saturdays in Austin
West Austin Studio Tour
East Austin Studio Tour
Austin Studio Tour
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Almost Real Things Art Market
Museums & Cultural Institutions
The Contemporary Austin
Laguna Gloria
The Jones Center
Blanton Museum of Art
Mexic-Arte Museum
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden
Harry Ransom Center
Bullock Museum
Austin Gallery Guides
Best Art Galleries in Austin
Contemporary Art Galleries in Austin
Commercial Art Galleries in Austin
Independent Art Galleries in Austin
Galleries, Studios & Creative Spaces
Ao5 Gallery
ArtUs Co.
Cloud Tree Studios
Davis Gallery
Dimension Gallery
Dougherty Arts Center
Flatbed Center for Contemporary Printmaking
GrayDUCK Gallery
ICOSA Collective
Ivester Contemporary
Laura Rathe Fine Art
Link & Pin Gallery
Martha's
Northern-Southern
Northern-Southern at Canopy
Visual Arts Center at UT Austin
Wally Workman Gallery
West Chelsea Contemporary
Women & Their Work
Yard Dog
Big Medium
Canopy Austin
Collecting Contemporary Art
One of the most rewarding parts of being an artist is seeing a painting begin a new life with someone else. Here, I share what I've learned about collecting contemporary art, from choosing original paintings and understanding their value to building a collection that continues to grow in meaning with time.
Collecting Contemporary Art
Beginning a Collection
Why Collect Original Art
How to Start an Art Collection
Buying Your First Original Painting
Questions to Ask Before Buying Art
What to Ask Before Purchasing a Painting
Buying Original Art
Buying Contemporary Art
How to Buy Original Art Online
Working with Art Advisors
How to Buy Original Art in Austin
Buying Art from Local Artists
The Primary Art Market
The Secondary Art Market
Value, Pricing & Provenance
How Original Art Is Priced
Why Provenance Matters
Certificates of Authenticity
What Makes Art Valuable?
What Makes Abstract Art Valuable
Commissions & Emerging Artists
Commissioning Original Artwork
Commissioning a Large Scale Painting
Collecting Emerging Artists
Investing in Emerging Artists
Choosing, Installing & Caring for Art
Choosing the Right Large Painting
Choosing Art for Large Walls
Installing Large Paintings
Displaying Large Paintings
Caring for Contemporary Paintings
Caring for Large Scale Paintings
Fine Art Shipping
Shipping Large Contemporary Art
Living With Art
Living With Contemporary Art
Living With Art You Love
How to Live With Art You Love
Living With Abstract Art
Living With Large Scale Art
Building a Lasting Collection
How to Collect Contemporary Art
Building a Meaningful Art Collection
Building a Lasting Collection
Contemporary Art Collections
Contemporary Art for Collectors
Collecting Abstract Art
Abstract Art for Collectors
Private Art Collections
Corporate Art Collections
Museum Collections
Public Art Collections
Collecting Institutions
Artist Resources
I've learned that building a creative life requires far more than making good work. Here, I share many of the resources, lessons, and practical advice I wish I'd had when I was starting out, covering everything from portfolios and artist statements to professional opportunities and building a creative career.
Artist Resources
Austin Art Organizations
Austin Art Schools
Austin Artist Residencies
Artist Residencies
Austin Grants for Artists
Austin Calls for Artists
Austin Art Supply Stores
Austin Creative Resources
Building an Artist Portfolio
Writing an Artist Statement
Creating a Professional CV
Photographing Artwork
Applying for Artist Opportunities
Submitting to Juried Exhibitions
Open Studio Events
Networking in the Austin Art Community
Interior Design & Architecture
I've always believed the right painting doesn't simply fill a wall. It transforms the way a space is experienced. Here, I explore the relationship between contemporary art, architecture, and interior design, sharing how original paintings can bring atmosphere, character, and lasting presence to the homes, workplaces, and commercial spaces we inhabit.
Interior Design & Architecture
Art, Design & Architecture
Interior Design and Contemporary Art
How Interior Designers Select Artwork
Working with Interior Designers
Working with Architects
Art for the Home
Art for Luxury Homes
Art for Modern Homes
Art for Contemporary Homes
Art for Minimalist Interiors
Art for Commercial Spaces
Art for Commercial Interiors
Art for Hotels
Art for Restaurants
Art for Corporate Offices
Art for Healthcare Spaces
Choosing Artwork for Rooms
Choosing Artwork Room by Room
Art for Living Rooms
Art for Dining Rooms
Art for Bedrooms
Art for Entryways
Art for Staircases
Large-Scale Art & Statement Walls
How to Select Oversized Artwork
Statement Pieces for Large Walls
Designing With Original Art
Designing Around Original Art
Contemporary Art for Luxury Homes
Contemporary Art in Modern Interiors
Art for Modern Interiors
Art for Offices & Hospitality Spaces
Art for Offices
Art for Hospitality Spaces
Collections & Exhibitions
I've always believed art comes fully to life when it's shared with others. Here, I reflect on the exhibitions, collections, and curatorial decisions that shape how contemporary art is experienced, from preparing a body of work for display to presenting it in ways that invite meaningful connection.
Collections & Exhibitions
Solo Exhibitions
Group Exhibitions
Curating an Exhibition
Preparing for an Exhibition
Working with Curators
Writing Exhibition Statements
Installing an Exhibition
Exhibition Photography
The Business of Art
Making art is only part of building a sustainable creative life. Here, I explore the practical realities of being a contemporary artist, sharing what I've learned about working with galleries, pricing paintings, building relationships with collectors, and creating a career that can grow alongside the work itself.
The Business of Art
Building an Art Career
The Business of Being an Artist
Building an Art Career
Selling Original Artwork
Building Relationships with Collectors
Building Relationships with Galleries
Working with Galleries
Building a Sustainable Studio Practice
Pricing, Inventory & Documentation
Pricing Original Paintings
Managing an Art Inventory
Documenting Artwork
Certificates of Authenticity Explained
Rights, Licensing & Shipping
Artist Copyright
Licensing Artwork
Shipping Artwork Internationally
Working with Fine Art Shippers
Visibility & Marketing
Photography for Artists
Creating an Artist Website
Marketing Original Artwork
SEO for Artists
Writing About Your Artwork
Building Long-Term Visibility
Gallery Representation
How to Get Represented by an Art Gallery
How Galleries Select Artists
Preparing for Gallery Representation
Pricing Your Artwork
Collect Original Art
I believe collecting original art should feel personal, inspiring, and approachable. Here, I share what I've discovered about acquiring contemporary abstract paintings, whether you're purchasing your first piece, commissioning a large-scale work, or searching for artwork that will become a meaningful part of your home, business, or collection.
Collect Original Art
Original Abstract Paintings for Sale
Buy Original Art in Austin
Commission an Abstract Painting
Large Abstract Paintings for Sale
Buy Directly From the Artist
Private Studio Appointments
Art Consulting and Private Viewings
Paintings for Interior Designers
Art Advisors & Trade Professionals
Corporate Art Commissions
Luxury Home Artwork
Acquire a Painting
From the Studio
Not every idea begins as a finished painting or a completed essay. Sometimes it starts as a question, an observation, or a quiet moment in the studio worth remembering. Here, I share those moments as they happen, offering a more immediate look at my work as it continues to evolve between the larger chapters of this library.
June 2026
July 2026