Edward Hopper “Cape Cod Morning” 1950

Jack Vetrriano “The Singing Butler” 1992

Edward Hopper’s “Cape Cod Morning” and Jack Vettriano’s “The Singing Butler” are both paintings created in the 20th century (after the year 1910), but are quite different in regards to use of light, color, and form. Just because these works of art were conceived in the same century does not mean that they have to evoke the same feelings or convey the same message to the audience. Through different techniques, and different levels of emphasis placed on each art form, each artist is able to create a story.

In “Cape Cod Morning,” there are a mix of colors used. You could say that each color of the rainbow is used somewhere within the painting. Red is found at the foundation of the house as well as is the color of the woman’s dress, orange is found within the fields and walls, yellow is blended within the orange of the grain, green is found within the multitude of trees that are not too far in the distance, as well as within the walls of the house as well, and blue is found on the exterior of the building and in the sky. Through the use of many colors, the painting appears as vibrant and somewhat uplifting. The sky seems to have very few clouds, and it looks as if the woman is leaning and looking towards the sun that was chosen to be left out of the painting. The lighter shades of green within the trees is evidence that the sun is most likely east of the house. This morning sunlight has attracted this woman, strongly captivating her attention. Nature is so beautifully displayed outside of her home. There is enough detail to make the trees and grain look realistic, yet at the same time, the brushstrokes make everything look absolutely perfect and enchanting. The woman seeks to become one with nature. It is as if the bright light has called her and is inviting her to come enjoy time outdoors, however the woman isn’t walking out of the house and can only admire through a window. Due to her form (the position of her body), we can tell that she longs to leave and chase the beauty outdoors. However, this longing only remains a desire in this painting. Although the painting has such bright and beautiful solid colors, with hints of shadow and light, it depicts the sad reality of longing but not acquiring.

In “The Singing Butler,” two social classes are presented, and this is clearly depicted through the clothing of each individual. In the center, we are presented with a wealthy man and woman, which can be assumed based upon his tuxedo and her bright red gown. They seem to be carelessly dancing in the middle of a storm. This storm is depicted through a dark sky and a seemingly wet ground. The weather does not look favorable, yet this couple decides to stay outside and enjoy themselves. A maid and butler stand on each side of the couple, protecting them from the rain with umbrellas. It should be noticed that no individual is revealing their face, and the maid and butler seem to be especially struggling amidst this storm, as they try to shield the dancing woman and man from danger. Through the dark shades of gray and wind portrayed through the blowing of the maid’s dress, the painter makes it clear that this is not a comfortable or peaceful setting, at least not for those who are being of service. The workers must struggle to bring comfort to their bosses, which conveys the message that those of lesser social status are most likely underappreciated for the work they have to endure. The dancing couple does not seem to care that the maid or butler are having a difficult time, as they do not look at them and are simply focused on their elegant dance. The butler and maid both hold a black umbrella, but the butler’s is significantly larger, which can symbolize that even within the workers, there is a social class, as the butler has more power than the maid within the household. Out of all of the figures, the maid seems to be struggling the most as she is covering her face in grief, whereas the couple seems to be in comfort. The further down the social ladder you are, the more troubles you encounter. Through the use of human expression and positions, color, and proportion, the artist is able to illustrate different social classes and their level of luxury.

While both paintings can be interpreted as expressing some sort of struggle, there is a greater sense of serenity in the first painting, whereas the storm depicted in the latter creates a sense of chaos and conflict. Although the woman is not outside, she is able to witness the beauty of light and nature. In the second painting, the rich couple enjoys their time together as the help battle the storm coming against them, and there really isn’t anything to admire within the setting. Both paintings are similar in that light and darkness are huge determinants of the mood within each painting, and the position of each individual painted determines their intentions/responsibilities/emotions.