Rothko Forever

Collage of works by Mark Rothko

As a kid, I spent long hours in the museum of the Harry Ransom Center staring at their Rothko; part of their permanent collection. My mom worked as a librarian at the University of Texas, and I often roamed the 40 acres, finding myself drawn to the Rothko over and over. I found peace there; and transcendence.

Many years later, as an Art History student, I participated in a field trip: we were off to see the holdings of the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. As  part of our journey, we were shown the Rothko Chapel. The architecture is  based on a church, and there are fourteen floor to ceiling dark to black Rothko paintings. The space is open to worship of any denominations, or just to peaceful contemplation. You can definitely feel the spiritual charge by entering the place.  

Mark Rothko's designs are deceptively simple, but convey a depth of emotion and philosophical thought behind his rich colors. If you have the opportunity, take the time to get lost in a painting. It will change your life forever. 

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Visit the works of Mark Rothko on the third floor of the library by enjoying these books: 

Ashton, D. (2003). About Rothko. Cambridge, Mass.: Da Capo.

759.1 ROTHKO, M. ASHTON 2003

Baal-Teshuva, J. (2015). Mark Rothko, 1903-1970: Pictures as drama. Koln: Taschen

709.0404 BAAL-TESHUVA

Breslin, J. E. (1993). Mark Rothko: a biography. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

759.1 R846b