Edward Hopper, "Nighthawks"

 

 This week we have one of my favorite paintings.  It isn't a real happy image, more mysterious and thought provoking.  Edward Hopper (1882-1967) is the artist, of Nighthawks.  Like American Gothic, much has been written and many take-offs created as both works are icons of American culture.
  So instead of repeating other published comments, I will attempt to show other things I find interesting.   
    The painting is composed of sharp angles and rectangles, with the color harmony a basic red/brown to green/blue complementary, all though there are exceptions. Notice how the brick red of the building is balanced by the dark red/brown of the counter.   See how the center of attention, the people are all on the far right, making the street and building as important as they are. 
    I love this painting for what is NOT there as much as is there.  Hopper loved the movies, and many of his images are mysterious and dramatic. How did he do this? Notice no signs inside the cafe, and look how clean the street is, and notice only one light shining inside the building window.  Is that window open?   There is only one light source, what we can assume is a fluorescent light, but we can't see the fixture.  There is no street light, no neon sign.  I think this is what makes this painting so much fun!
   Edward Hopper created this painting in the winter of 1941-42, completing it in late January.  The Art Institute of Chicago recognized it's importance soon after, and by May, 1942 purchased it for $3,000.  If you remember they also purchased American Gothic shortly after is was first exhibited.  These two paintings are now part of the foundation of the permanent collection of this great institution, and of course are worth considerably more than their original purchase price. 
    Nighthawks is an oil on canvas.  It measures 33" x 60".
Make Art a part of your life, it's a beautiful thing to do.

Comments

  1. Char HarguthJanuary 12, 2021 at 8:44 AM

    This one is always fun to revisit. It has an isolating look, but the expressions of the people suggest a warm and friendly interaction happening inside. We don't know what the businesses across the street are, but the four windows above in the brick building suggest occupant's. The eeriness of the scene is captivating. Could I imagine myself there?? Maybe. It appears safe!! Does it have any relevance to the war going on at the time? No crowds out for the evening! (An amazing purchase price!!)

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