Duane Brown

Coffee and Cigarettes, Oil Painting

2025

Artist Comments
A coffee pot, cups, cigarettes, and condiment bottles rest on a checkered table in this al fresco diner scene. The string of lights in the background evokes the warmth and intimacy often associated with familial or friendly gatherings. Muted, earthy tones create a grounded, calm environment. The artwork hints at communal bonding and the slow, deliberate experience of sharing a moment, perhaps countering the alienation of modern, fast-paced lifestyles.

About the Artist
Artist Duane Brown captures everyday life with a focus on intimate, often overlooked moments. Originally from Northern California and now based in New Mexico, Duane began as a photo-realist but found new energy in expressive painting after years of working as a caricature artist. “I found the freedom of improvisation in my brushstrokes to be a more rewarding way to express my vision,” shares Duane. His scenes often unfold instinctively, drawing references from live models, 3D software, personal photos, and even paused frames from old movies. Duane paints from a home studio, where he can easily respond to bursts of inspiration day or night. Outside of painting, he reads newspapers and periodicals aloud for the New Mexico Commission for the Blind—a role that adds unexpected meaning to the visual nature of his work.

Words that describe this painting: diner, breakfast, lunch, checkers, checks, coffee, table, still life, modern , oil painting, brown

Coffee and Cigarettes
Duane Brown
Oil painting on stretched canvas
Finished black edges
Ready to hang
One-of-a-kind
Signed on front
2025
20 in. h x 16 in. w x .5 in. d
0 lbs. 14 oz.