10 amazing realistic oil paintings by Edward Hopper

7/22/2016

Edward Hopper, a prominent American realist, was born on the 22nd of July, 1882. His masterpieces are well-known worldwide as unique and melancholic reflections of American life.

Do you remember, what life was like back in the 20th century? Edward Hopper was a painter who coped to capture the mood of the epoch, depicting various scenes, from typical American households to powerful and moody landscapes. The author's personal vision, mixed with extremely lifelike depictions, became the essence of Hopper's inimitable style and a kind of secret he would gladly share with us.

#1 People in the Sun

It's clear that these tourists are barely enjoying their experience. This painting may be a reflection of Hopper's personal attitude to the American West, its tough light and monumental landscapes.

#2 American Village

A realistic and atmospheric depiction of rural life.

#3 Blackhead, Monhegan

The painter found a lot of inspiration in this place.

#4 Summer Interior

Hopper always paid a lot of attention to the image of a woman in his works.

#5 Nighthawks

This masterpiece is the most famous Hopper's work. Its mood says it all.

#6 Girl at a Sewing Machine

Another woman's story, another story of solitude. And one of the many so-called "window paintings" by Hopper.

#7 The House by the Railroad

This painting inspired the look of the Bates house in Alfred Hitchcock's film 'Psycho'.

#8 Gas

The painter coped to catch the spirit of the lonely American roads.

#9 Le Bistro or The Wine Shop

Though the composition of this painting is unusual and curious, everything seems to be on its right place. The scale of colors creates a remarkable atmosphere.

#10 Soir Bleu

These people are sitting together, at the same time avoiding each other. Isn't this canvas the most depressing one?

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What do you think of Hopper's masterpieces? How do they make you feel? Share your impressions with us in the comments below!

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What are your thoughts on this subject?

45 Comments

Ann Carlson

I love his work. Nighthawks is my favorite. Alone and loneliness seems to be his themes.

deborahpmercer

His pictures are so atmospheric. I actually know a hotel here in the UK that looks not wholly unlike the house by the railroad.

Jim Redden

film noir on canvas.

Annemarie Latimer

Early Sunday Morning is one of my favorites.

David Cass

Like most of America, I like the "Nighthawks" piece the most. They're all beautiful, intriguing, and serve as a statement of America as it was then, the very early years of the twentieth century. Very stirring.

William Laughlin

You are comparing apples to oranges. Warhol was a Pop artist. Hopper was a realist painter. His style might be described as "soft" realism, using simplified shapes and details. He used saturated color to heighten contrast and create the somber mood he is famous for. Both were standouts in their own way.

William Laughlin

Helen Graham Art speaks to each of us in different ways. Some like the melancholy atmosphere, the geometry, or the somberness of the colors, the moments frozen in time, or the subject matter. You need to broaden your view of what art is. Sometimes it is joyful, but it can be jolting, sad, an expression of violence, or a political statement. As long as it speaks to you in some way, it is art. Learn to appreciate how the artist moved you, even toward depression. There is an art to his ability to make you feel.

William Laughlin

Kat Frederick Art speaks to each of us in different ways. Some like the melancholy atmosphere, the geometry, or the somberness of the colors, the moments frozen in time, or the subject matter. You need to broaden your view of what art is. Sometimes it is joyful, but it can be jolting, sad, an expression of violence, or a political statement. As long as it speaks to you in some way, it is art. Learn to appreciate how the artist moved you, even toward depression. There is an art to his ability to make you feel.

Nicole Toma-Tolman

Yeah, Nighthawks and Gas are my favorites. I like his style... solitude is my thing.

DannyBoy

Iconic.

Melanie K. Anzalone

Love...Love...Love his work.

Tom McPherson

i liked his landscapes the most

Debbie Kuegler

#10 is also reflective of current social situations - just add cell phones

Betty Young

Awesome

Kat Frederick

Helen Graham...I, totally, agree with you! I see no joy, in them, what-so-ever! They depress me, too! How anyone can think these Paintings are beautiful, or makes them feel good, is beyond me. :(