Carnegie Museum of Art: CMOA Collects Edward Hopper

CMOA Collects Edward Hopper
July 25–October 26, 2015
Gallery One

Edward Hopper; Sailing, 1911; oil on canvas; Gift of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Beal in honor of the Sarah Scaife Gallery; Courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art

In 1913, Edward Hopper sold his first painting at the first Armory Show. But it would be over a decade before the now-famed painter sold another. Instead, Hopper turned to etchings, drawings, and watercolors, finding recognition for his masterful compositions of quiet, meditative moments.

Edward Hopper is best known for his paintings of urban modern life in the 20th century, but the artist initially found success with etching. This medium proved to be ideal for his bold graphic compositions and humble American subject matter that included rooftops, railroads, buildings, and landscapes. Gain behind-the-scenes insight into CMOA’s Hopper collection with curator Akemi May, who will discuss this important moment in the artist’s career, famous printmakers like Rembrandt who inspired him, and the watercolors that led to his recognition as a painter.

Edward Hopper; Night Shadows, 1921; etching; Leisser Art Fund; Courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art

CMOA Collects Edward Hopper presents all 17 works by Hopper in the museum’s collection, ranging from impressive examples of his etchings, drawings, and watercolors, to the oil paintings for which he is best known. This includes the first painting Hopper sold, Sailing (1911), and his 1936 painting Cape Cod Afternoon, produced after he gained widespread recognition. CMOA Collects Edward Hopper also presents prints by artists who influenced Hopper during his difficult formative years, including Rembrandt, John Sloan, and Charles Meryon.

Edward Hopper; Cape Cod Afternoon, 1936; oil on canvas; Patrons Art Fund; Courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art

Never before exhibited together, the works in CMOA Collects Edward Hopper reveal the development of an iconic American master, and shed light on the influences that produced his instantly recognizable style.

Edward Hopper; Roofs, Washington Square, 1926; watercolor over charcoal on paper; Bequest of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Beal; Carnegie Museum of Art

CMOA Collects Edward Hopper is organized by Akemi May, associate curator of fine art.

More Images:

Edward Hopper, American, 1882-1967, Rocky Pedestal, 1927, watercolor on paper, Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh