Cape Cod Evening was Hopper’s mental impression of the area which was pieced together through previous sketches and memories. It depicts a white house by a forest of trees. A blond man plays fetch with his dog whilst a woman stands next to them. The dog looks off to the side of the painting as if he is distracted by a sound. Despite the cozy scene depicted, several of Hopper’s themes such as loneliness and isolation can also be identified. Although the woman and man are presumably a couple, they are oblivious to each other’s presence. The grass is uncut and uncharacteristic of well-kept houses. The house and the main scene is painted with light colors. However, the dark colors of the forest and the oncoming darkness of the evening are ominous. Through this painting, Hopper presents his skeptical attitude of humanity and our relationship with nature.

SKU: 7244
Creator: Edward Hopper
Date: 1939
Original Medium: oil on canvas
Location: National Gallery of Art