Meaning: Edward Hopper, an iconic American realist painter, was known for his unique approach to painting, as well as his ability to capture the essence of everyday life in his art. The quote provided offers insight into his technique and the materials he used to create his masterpieces.

Hopper's statement "It's to paint directly on the canvas without any funny business, as it were, and I use almost pure turpentine to start with, adding oil as I go along until the medium becomes pure oil. I use as little oil as I can possibly help, and that's my method" reveals his dedication to a straightforward and uncomplicated process. This approach aligns with his artistic style, which often depicted scenes of urban and rural life with a sense of clarity and directness.

Hopper's preference for starting with almost pure turpentine and gradually adding oil until the medium becomes pure oil reflects his commitment to achieving a specific texture and luminosity in his paintings. By using minimal oil, he aimed to maintain transparency and luminosity, allowing the colors to shine through and creating a sense of depth in his work. This method also speaks to his desire to maintain a certain level of control over the painting process, allowing him to achieve the desired visual effects.

It's important to note that Hopper's technique and use of materials were integral to the overall mood and atmosphere of his paintings. His careful manipulation of the medium allowed him to create the distinctive play of light and shadow that became a hallmark of his style. The use of almost pure turpentine at the outset of the painting process likely facilitated the initial sketching and underpainting stages, enabling Hopper to establish the composition and basic forms before gradually building up the layers with oil.

Hopper's method also underscores his emphasis on the essential elements of painting. By avoiding "funny business" and focusing on a simple, direct approach, he prioritized the purity of the medium and the integrity of the artistic process. This dedication to authenticity and clarity is evident in the evocative and emotionally charged scenes he portrayed, which often resonated with viewers on a profound level.

In conclusion, Edward Hopper's quote provides valuable insight into his artistic process and the meticulous approach he took to painting. His preference for using almost pure turpentine at the outset, gradually incorporating oil, and using minimal amounts of oil reflects his commitment to achieving specific visual effects and maintaining control over the medium. This dedication to simplicity and purity, in both technique and artistic expression, contributed to the enduring impact of his work and solidified his status as a master of American realism.