'Realism In Edward Hopper's Automat'

Reading Between the Art Art, in any shape or form, can be interpreted into text nowadays. Whether it’s a photograph, painting or a sculpture, people can form an elucidation from the work. Some artists use symbolism to make the audience think about the piece and try to find the meaning behind the work. Other artists, however, draw a direct representation of what they want their art to convey to the audience; in other words realism. Edward Hopper, artist of the painting “Automat (1927)”, is an example of someone who uses realism to convey a message. Hopper uses multiple elements, such as color contrast, lighting effects and shading, to show the realism of the painting. Hopper often used oil paints, which have noticeably more depth in them than other kinds of paints like water colors. From the color of the woman’s hat, to her coat and the flowers, the colors in this picture stand out, as they would in real life. The dreary …show more content…
From the vibrant to droopy color contrast, to the lighting and shading effects, one can capture the true essence and meaning behind this picture. All three elements also tie in with each other, which was another thing Hopper did accurately. Without any of the effects mentioned, the picture would not make sense, thus rejecting the fact that the painting conveys realism. Hopper is telling us through these elements that the woman isn’t feeling like herself. She’s in a quiet place and has her face sunken in. Hopper did use very small elements of symbolism that tied in with realism, such as the notably darker shaded aura around the woman. The darkness symbolizes her dismay and sadness while realistically showing the sorrow through her face and body language. With artists like Hopper, most people are now able to read through the