Art by Erika Taguchi-Newton

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

My apology letter to Edward Hopper

Dear Mr. Hopper,

Yes, it's true. Another pathetic parody has been painted of your masterpiece, "Nighthawks."



And I'm sorry, I did it. But rest assured it will never be as widely known as that nails-on-the-chalkboard version, "Boulevard of Broken Dreams."



I know there has been many over the years from The Simpsons to that one with chickens, so I'm positive mine is not the worst offense. Yes, I butchered your lonely composition and the stark balance of warm and cool lighting. But please understand, I did it out of respect and love of your work. The task of recreating the mood you set has taught me that I have a lot to learn. I hope if we ever meet in the afterlife, you will not dismiss me completely, but pat me on my head and say, "at least you tried."

Sincerely,
Erika

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Here's my "Nighthawks" homage, with the classic Univeral monsters:

Night at Karloff's
"Night at Karloff's" - 20x16 Acrylics

And some works-in-progress:

Sketches: Nighthawks
Some sketches of the classic Universal monsters

Sketch - Wolfman
Final Wolfman sketch

WIP: Nighthawks pencils
Final pencils on board

WIP - The Bride
The Bride is starting to get some color

WIP - The Wolfman
Wolfie is getting there

WIP - Karloff's (Color)

I wish I did a more horizontal piece like Hopper's original. It's just not the same without the street scene. Note to self: work more on composition. And don't mess with a masterpiece.

1 comment:

T. Edwin Perry said...

I'm not an art critic or anything, but I think it's pretty good. I like the facial detailing, particularly for the "Bride" character. And remember, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
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