I began drawing as a child—hands moving through the air before sleep, sketching invisible worlds. Though my path first led through science and medicine, I learned that art, like anatomy, reveals the structure beneath what we feel. Each of us carries a Dharma—a calling that asks to be practiced with craft, precision, and heart.
Today I work as both artist and technician of image: observing light, color, and atmosphere, then building them into layered compositions. My goal isn’t replication but resonance—each work is designed to evoke Happiness, Peace, Serenity, or Solitude. When a piece finds its place in your home, it becomes your reflection.
Art is more than decoration; it’s a bridge between memory and emotion. When you bring one of these prints home, it’s not my story you’re seeing—it’s yours.
Kevin Kia, artist and founder of Art Academi.
Free Printable Artwork
Explore my work with a complimentary digital sample artwork. You’ll receive a high-quality file you can preview in your space—and occasional studio updates with new collections and behind-the-scenes process.
Studio updates, sent gently and never too often.
My Creative Process
Each Art Academi piece passes through three crafted stages: vision, technical construction, and emotional refinement. Below are the tools, workflows, and file standards I use in a professional digital fine-art studio.
1 — Vision & Imagination
I begin with exploratory sketches on a Wacom Intuos Pro tablet (pressure & tilt sensitive) so strokes behave like graphite, ink, or oil. I assemble digital mood boards in Milanote or Adobe Bridge, mixing my photographs, historical references, textures, and tightly controlled palettes defined in HEX / LAB / Pantone for cross-screen and print accuracy.
Digital mood board: color families, studies, and references.
2 — Digital Construction
I build canvases in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator at 300–600 dpi for archival output. In Photoshop I paint with a proprietary brush library—charcoal for grain, round-oil presets for layered glazing (50–80% opacity), watercolor engines with flow & scatter for washes, and mixer brushes for atmospheric blending. Brush dynamics are mapped to pen pressure & tilt, so a single stroke can taper, break, or pool pigment naturally.
I organize non-destructive layers (Background / Midground / Foreground), masks, and tonal stacks (Curves, Selective Color, Gradient Maps) using Multiply, Overlay, and Soft Light for depth and luminosity. For structural precision and scale, I draft in Illustrator with variable-width strokes and gradient meshes, then integrate vector geometry back into the painterly raster for cohesion.
Photoshop workspace: brushes, actions, channels, and layered workflow.Wacom tablet: pressure & tilt dynamics for lifelike strokes.
3 — Final Polish & Authenticity
Finishing is where the piece breathes. I grade color with Curves / Selective Color, apply targeted high-pass sharpening (1–3 px, Soft Light), and proof in Adobe RGB (1998) and sRGB IEC 61966-2-1. For print, I soft-proof and convert to CMYK (ISO Coated v2) when required. Masters are archived as layered TIFF/PSD (lossless, embedded ICC); web previews export as optimized JPG/PNG with retained metadata.
Hardware: Intel i9 / NVIDIA RTX / 64 GB RAM workstation, calibrated 4K IPS monitor (X-Rite profiled), Wacom Intuos Pro, and redundant SSD/RAID backups. These ensure color fidelity, stability, and long-term archival safety.
Refinement: from flat source (left) to layered brushwork, tonal calibration, and print-ready depth (right).
Printing, Archival Quality & Delivery
Each artwork is produced through giclée pigment printing using 12-color ink systems (Epson UltraChrome PRO or Canon Lucia PRO) on acid-free, 100% cotton rag papers such as Hahnemühle Photo Rag or comparable museum-grade substrates.
This process yields remarkable tonal depth, micro-contrast, and pigment permanence exceeding 100 years under standard display conditions.
After printing, the sheets cure for at least 24 hours to allow full pigment stabilization.
Each print is then sleeved in archival-safe, acid-free enclosures and mounted on rigid backing boards to preserve flatness.
Oversized formats are rolled with interleaving tissue and shipped in heavy-duty kraft tubes with moisture protection and corner guards.
All editions are produced in-house or by certified fine-art print partners under museum archival standards.
Each print ships tracked, insured, and ready for display upon arrival.
Questions & Answers
Is your artwork created by hand?
Each piece is hand-painted on a digital canvas using stylus and tablet, stroke by stroke. The computer is a precision instrument—like a press or a camera.
Why digital instead of traditional paint?
Digital tools let classical brushwork coexist with modern color management and archival masters, while keeping the craft timeless: line, tone, color, and light.
How do you achieve the brush texture?
Custom Photoshop brushes mapped to pressure/tilt with controlled opacity/flow (30–80%), mixer brushes for blending, and curated grain so edges feel naturally soft, never plastic.
What makes your prints museum-quality?
High-resolution masters (300–600 dpi), ICC-profiled color, 100% cotton archival papers, and pigment inks rated for 100+ years of lightfastness. Soft-proofed in Adobe RGB/sRGB and converted to CMYK when required.
From 10 hours to several weeks, depending on complexity—sketching, structure, layered painting, grading, soft-proofing, and print prep.
Who inspires your work?
Turner, Van Gogh, Monet, Rothko—alongside Mønsted, Gérôme, Breton, Shishkin, and Waterhouse—and the quiet fragments of daily life: seasons, weather, a remembered walk.
Collector Reviews
( 57 )★ ★ ★ ★ ★
reviews
Review highlights
→ Choose a topic to read the key takeaways.
Collectors consistently praise the overall look and feel of the artwork—especially the
rich color depth and its painterly presence in person.
Fast delivery, careful packaging, and
responsive communication help make the entire experience smooth and reassuring.
Many collectors describe the prints as crisp and high quality, with details that remain clear and refined
across different sizes. Several also mention the premium feel of the paper or canvas and how impressive it looks
once displayed.
Color and lighting are frequently highlighted, with collectors noting vivid tones, strong contrast,
and a warm, luminous glow that naturally draws the eye when you enter the room.
Shipping is often described as fast and reliable, with artwork arriving on time, in excellent condition,
and with shipping costs that feel fair and reasonable.
Buyers appreciate the careful presentation, including protective wrapping and thoughtful packaging
designed to keep the artwork safe during transit.
Customer service consistently stands out, with many reviews mentioning quick replies,
patient communication, and helpful guidance—especially for custom requests.
The overall experience is often described as professional and kind.
Many collectors feel the artwork offers excellent value for the quality delivered, frequently noting
that it exceeded expectations and inspired them to purchase again.
Gift-givers often report that recipients truly loved the artwork, describing it as meaningful,
calming, and perfectly suited for a special or personal space.
S
Shelly
verified
Greenwich, CT
2025-04-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Amazing Job!
Kevin did an amazing job customizing a print for me that created a stunning display in my kitchen. He was patient, accepting of honest feedback and timely in delivering the finished product. I plan to buy more of his beautiful artwork soon because his creative talent and his customer service is comparable in excellence.
D
Denis
verified
Aspen, CO
2025-03-17
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Outstanding service!
I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The prints exceeded my expectations and my father is absolutely thrilled with them. Kevin is incredibly kind and professional and goes the extra mile.
T
Tracey
verified
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
2025-03-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Wonderful Experience!
I just love this image! Can’t wait to get it framed. Working with Kevin was a treat, he is so responsive. Answered all my questions in record time. Went above and beyond :)
V
Vita
verified
Allentown, PA
2026-01-3
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
How great!
This was a gift for my daughter's friend. It was in the package with my daughter's, so I didn't personally see it yet. She absolutely loves the print. I can't wait to see both of them. I offered to frame both pieces, so I will hopefully see them soon.
T
Tia
verified
Atherton, CA
2025-09-03
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Remarkable!
I loved all the artworks! I purchased a print several months ago and I could not be happier with the quality and the breathtaking image. Customer service is exceptional and understanding of my request. I definitely recommend buying from here if you desire beautiful, breathtaking images!
J
Janna
verified
Short Hills, NJ
2025-03-15
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Stunning artwork!
Stunning artwork delivered right to your inbox to print at the size you desire. Exceptional customer care, included a bonus gift… highly recommend!
S
Susan
verified
Ontario, Canada
2026-01-05
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Spectacular!
I received Panorama and I love it! It was packaged really well and arrived safely and I can’t wait to find just the right frame for it. Thanks so much!
R
Robin
verified
Lake Forest, IL
2025-03-25
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Great Quality!
The quality is great and the artist so quick to respond. Would definitely recommend!
I
Isabelle
verified
Newport, RI
2025-09-01
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Époustouflant!
Votre travail est d’une beauté inspirante, mêlant douceur et originalité. Merci de le partager et d’encourager ceux qui aiment créer. Merci également d’avoir répondu si rapidement et avec tant de gentillesse à ma demande. 🌹
S
Sebastian
verified
Diekholzen, Germany
2025-12-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Definitely recommended!
The quality of the printed canvas is excellent, almost impossible to distinguish from a real painting.
V
Vita
verified
Allentown, PA
2026-01-3
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Marvelous!
This was actually a gift for my daughter. It arrived just after Christmas, so I gave her the package to keep safe until she frames it. She said it was gorgeous and can't wait to frame it.
G
Gary
verified
Oroville, WA
2025-12-13
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A very positive experience!
I was very happy with the quick response to questions and am happy with the image. Shipping was smooth and quick. Just waiting to hang it. Thx Kevin
M
Marie
verified
Tucson, AZ
2025-12-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Definitely recommended!
The colors are indeed bright. The print arrived lightening fast and wrapped in tissue paper. I cannot be more pleased with my purchase.
DP
Daniel P.
verified
Seattle, WA
2025-05-27
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Great!
Great print and wonderful experience overall. The detail and atmosphere in this piece are incredible — will definitely be ordering again!
A
Andrea
verified
Coral Gables, FL
2025-03-08
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Great!
Kevin is an excellent artist, his works are really beautiful… Recommended for all lovers of art and beauty!
ES
Emily S.
verified
Denver, CO
2025-10-05
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Solid!
Beautifully done! The artwork quality and color depth exceeded my expectations. Shipping was smooth and everything arrived perfectly.
S
Stephanie
verified
Bethesda, MD
2025-03-12
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Gorgeous & high quality!
It is a gorgeous high quality digital download. I was able to print it at home and I LOVE how it looks! I will definitely be getting more prints!
S
Stephanie
verified
Saratoga, CA
2025-03-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Amazing Quality!
Another beautiful digital download. The print quality is amazing in multiple sizes.
H
Helene
verified
Montreal, Canada
2025-11-01
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Crimson Moon!
Great quality paper, well packed. Super rendering 👌
K
Kasey
verified
La Jolla, CA
2025-03-14
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A unique painting!
This is such a unique painting! I was looking for something rainy themed to match what I already have. It’s stunning and printed perfectly through Vista!
L
Laurens
verified
Nieuwstadt, Netherlands
2025-11-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Definitely recommended!
The high quality of the art work and the paper. It is a real eye-catcher for our living room!
S
Sofia
verified
Brookline, MA
2025-03-13
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Best prints I’ve ever had!
Best prints I’ve ever had, I'm very happy with this purchase, thank you Kevin!
M
Marius
verified
Edina, MN
2025-03-06
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Beautiful art & service
Beautiful digital paintings and services.
R
Ramona
verified
WEATHERFORD, TX
2025-11-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Definitely recommended!
Beautiful artwork and exceptional quality — I couldn’t be happier.
G
Gerald
verified
Las Vegas, NV
2025-09-25
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
How great! Great piece!
Clarity, color, composition — all fine!
S
Silvana
verified
Beverly Hills, CA
2025-03-11
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Captured My Heart!
This artwork just captured my heart! It is affordable and beautiful… Would highly recommend this shop!!
D
David
verified
Waikanae, New Zealand
2025-11-14
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Highly recommended!
Beautiful picture. Arrived in perfect condition. Very reasonable shipping costs.
G
Gerald
verified
Las Vegas, NV
2025-09-22
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love the painting!
Love the painting and the printing and paper. Already a favorite.
P
Philip
verified
Austin, TX
2025-03-23
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Terrific!
I liked the picture “Imbalance” so much I painted it… Thank you Kevin for your beautiful artwork!
C
Carl
verified
Fripp Island, SC
2025-11-03
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Solid!
Composition, brush control, color management.
K
Kathryn
verified
Vancouver, WA
2025-09-02
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love this artist!
Brilliant color, high quality paper. Love this artist.
A
Adriana
verified
Temecula, CA
2025-12-04
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Incredible!!
The lighting the colors the subject all stunning. You captured the moonlight and country road with the old truck so nostalgic!
H
Helene
verified
Montreal, Canada
2025-11-05
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Dance of Colors!
Great colors! Vibrant and the mat texture is perfect!
KR
Kathryn R.
verified
Vancouver, WA
2025-03-18
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Beautiful colors!
Brilliant color, high quality paper. Love this artist.
R
Ruthie
verified
Palm Beach, FL
2025-03-10
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love your work!
I absolutely love your work. They are just beautiful. Thanks for making these available to other artists.
R
Ruth
verified
Nantucket, MA
2025-07-25
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
They are beautiful!
I absolutely love your work. They are just beautiful. Thanks for making these available to other artists.
B
Bonnie
verified
Alberta, Canada
2025-12-03
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love this!
The serenity and beauty of great addition for my gallery wall!
B
Bonny
verified
Alberta, Canada
2025-11-05
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Great!
love this painting. It gives me peace. I don’t know why but I’m hanging it on the wall by my bed so it’s the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing I look at before I go to sleep 😊
MW
Marie W.
verified
Matthews, NC
2025-03-20
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Fantastic!
Love the colors, just a sharp image.
B
Bonnie
verified
Alberta, Canada
2025-12-03
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Definitely recommend any of Kevin’s prints.
Always loved water lilies. A beautiful addition to my gallery wall
J
Jeanne-mance
verified
Paris, France
2025-12-27
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Formidable!
Cet art est vraiment magnifique, j'adore les paysages des quatre saisons, félicitations à vous Kevin Kia et longue vie ! ❤
A
Amy
verified
Thomaston, CT
2025-12-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Lovely!
The winter image is beautiful giving off a warm glow that catches your eye as soon as you walk into the room.
K
Kendall
verified
Lower Lake, CA
2025-11-11
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
How great! Having it mounted and framed
Reminds me where I grew up in Nebraska
S
Shirley
verified
Clarkston WA
2025-12-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love this!
I can’t wait to find the perfect frame! Thank you!
A
Anna
verified
Heber Springs, AR
2025-12-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Fantastic!
It was a gift and they absolutely loved it!
D
Dwayne
verified
Highland, UT
2025-11-13
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent!
Beautiful and better than the photo!
C
Carolyn
verified
San Francisco, CA
2025-11-07
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent!
The whole thing. The vivid colors and the birches.
S
Shelley
verified
The Woodlands, TX
2025-10-12
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Amazing!
I love the color combination!
G
Grinjesch
verified
Kingston, NY
2025-11-03
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Marvelous!
An Amzing and eye-catching artwork!
A
Ann
verified
Orebro, Sweden
2025-11-21
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Memories of Cinnabar
Love it!
S
Susan
verified
Ontario, Canada
2025-12-09
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Remarkable!
I loved this picture the moment i saw it. Thank you!
A
Alyssa
verified
Pleasant Mount, PA
2025-12-02
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Closer than far
Really loved it!
E
Eileen
verified
Windsor, CO
2025-11-02
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Fantastic!
I love it. Can't wait to hang it after it is framed.
K
Kathy
verified
Shaker Heights, OH
2025-03-05
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love it!
So beautiful and fits perfectly with my decor!
S
Sarah
verified
British Columbia, Canada
2025-12-26
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent!
Crimson Moon is a great artwork! I am really happy with my purchase.
In Art Academi, nature’s dreams take flight,
With strokes of wonder, we paint pure light.
Each piece a story, a timeless embrace,
Inviting serenity to fill your space.
Handmade artworks · digital & fine art prints
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