plate no. 7436

Hotel Window

Edward Hopper, 1955

oil, canvasNew Realismgenre paintingfigureinteriorwindowarchitecturefurniturelamp

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand the use of light and shadow to create mood and depth, as well as how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. Students will also practice mixing subtle color variations to depict the muted tones of the interior.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, window, and furniture.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the walls, floor, and window background.
step 03
Establish the main light and shadow patterns on the figure and furniture.
step 04
Refine the shapes and details of the figure, paying attention to the folds of the dress and the features of the face.
step 05
Add details to the furniture, such as the lamp, table, and picture frame.
step 06
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to the figure and furniture.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · cadmium red · titanium white · ivory black

Mix yellow ochre with white and a touch of burnt sienna for the walls. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create the cool tones of the floor and furniture. Mix cadmium red with white and a touch of burnt sienna for the figure's dress.

techniques

·blocking in
·layering
·blending
·scumbling
·glazing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure.
→Using colors that are too saturated.
→Ignoring the subtle color variations in the shadows.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·Stretched canvas 18x24
·Oil paints (yellow ochre, burnt sienna, ultramarine blue, cadmium red, titanium white, ivory black)
·Palette
·Palette knife
·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
·Odorless mineral spirits
·Linseed oil
·Rags