plate no. 9556

Edward Hopper

Andrey Allakhverdov, 2017

oilExpressionismportraitfiguresportraitscafeinteriorartistpalette

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in portraiture and capturing the atmosphere of an interior scene with limited color palette. Students can learn to create depth and form using visible brushstrokes and value variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and key elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Develop the background, starting with the darkest areas and gradually adding highlights.
step 04
Work on the figures, building up layers of color and detail, paying attention to skin tones and facial features.
step 05
Refine the details of the clothing, palette, and other objects, using thicker paint and more visible brushstrokes.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve the desired mood.
step 08
Add final details and touch-ups as needed.

color palette

primary · red · green · blue · yellow

secondary · black · white · brown

Mix various shades of red and brown for the artist's clothing. Use blues and whites to create the cool tones of the background and table. Greens and yellows are used for the woman's coat and the artist's palette.

techniques