plate no. 1826

Excursion into Philosophy

Edward Hopper, 1959

oil, canvasNew Realismgenre paintingfiguresbedroomwindowlightinteriorbook

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict light and shadow to create form and mood, as well as how to simplify complex scenes into geometric shapes. Students will also learn how to mix subtle color variations to create realistic skin tones and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to proportions and perspective.
step 02
Block in the main color areas, starting with the background and large shapes.
step 03
Develop the values and shadows, focusing on the light source and how it affects the scene.
step 04
Refine the details of the figures, including facial features and clothing.
step 05
Add highlights and subtle color variations to create depth and realism.
step 06
Paint the window and the landscape outside, using a limited palette.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the book and the shadows on the floor.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black

Mix white with small amounts of blue and umber for the walls. Use a combination of red, yellow, and umber for skin tones. Mix blue and umber for the bed.

techniques

·blocking in
·scumbling
·glazing
·chiaroscuro
·color mixing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the overall impression.
→Using too many colors and creating a muddy effect.
→Failing to accurately depict the light and shadow.
→Incorrect proportions of the figures.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas 18x24
·oil paints (titanium white, ultramarine blue, burnt umber, yellow ochre, cadmium red, ivory black)
·palette
·assorted brushes (round and flat)
·linseed oil
·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
·palette knife
·rags