One of the elements that play a pivotal role in the painting is color. The seeming simplicity of the painting that illustrates several figures behind the glass window of a diner on the overall empty-spaced background is achieved by means of a masterful combination of the elements of art. Nighthawks Painting Analysis The Description of the Elements of Art Thus, in his painting Nighthawks, Edward Hopper masterfully combines the uniqueness of composition, light and shadow, geometric shapes, empty space, color and contrast, and detailed depiction of objects to convey a realistic and modernist view on the post-war isolation and loneliness in American society. The artist uses straight lines, geometric shapes, and correct proportions to create a realistic, almost photograph-like image. The viewers’ eyes are drawn to the figures of people at the counter whose appearances and wardrobe elements are portrayed in great detail. The depth of darkness in the building is opposed to the bright contrasting colors and lightness of the diner. The building in the background is pictured in the shadows with dark and empty windows and glass doors. The restaurant is the only light that illuminates the empty space outside. ![]() It is late night, as implied by the outside darkness of the city street. ![]() The people are not interacting in the painting they sit separately. The woman is wearing a bright red short-sleeved dress, which compliments her red hair. The bartender is wearing a white shirt and a white cap he is looking outside the window into the dark emptiness of the street and the semi-dark building across the road. Another man and a woman are sitting on the opposite side with their faces toward the front of the picture. One of the men sits far from others with his back facing the front of the picture. Against the far wall inside the diner, there are two large coffee tureens and an orange door leading to the kitchen. Such a positioning of the counter allows the viewers to see the front and the side views of the restaurant. The shape of the counter follows the shape of the corner of the building and is curved at 90 degrees angle. The visitors are sitting on chairs they have cups, napkin holders, salt and pepper containers, and glasses near them on the counter. ![]() There are four people in the diner, including three visitors (two men and a woman) and a bartender behind the counter. The viewers can see the inside of the diner through a large glass window. The right side of the painting presents the interior of the diner with bright light inside illuminating the empty street. The painting portrays a city street corner where the restaurant is situated.
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