An immersive display of 11 masterpieces by Mark Rothko (1903–70), on loan from the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., invites visitors to contemplate the power of art to shape human experience.
Opening on September 24, don’t miss “Mark Rothko: Reflection,” an immersive display of 11 masterpieces by the artist, on loan from the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. The artworks showcase the full sweep of Rothko’s career—from early surrealist work and multiform compositions to classic color field paintings—and trace his exploration of the expressive potential of color.
The installation opens with a juxtaposition of Rothko’s early painting Thru the Window (1938), on public view in the U.S. for the first time, and Artist in his Studio (about 1628) by Rembrandt (1606–1669), from the MFA’s collection—both portraits of artists reflecting on the act of painting. Contrary to notions that Rothko’s work represented a dramatic break from past traditions, the side-by-side comparison positions him within the broader history of Western art. The additional 10 Rothko paintings showcase the full sweep of his career—from early surrealist work to multiform compositions to classic color field paintings—and trace his exploration of the expressive potential of color.
Enveloped by the large-scale paintings in an intimate setting, viewers can experience Rothko’s work as the artist had originally intended. Presented with generous support from the Robert and Jane Burke Fund for Exhibitions. Additional support provided by an anonymous foundation and The Bruce and Laura Monrad Fund for Exhibitions.
John F. Cogan, Jr. and Mary L. Cornille Gallery
Mark Rothko, 'Untitled,' 1949. Oil and mixed media on canvas. National Gallery of Art, Washington. Gift of The Mark Rothko Foundation, Inc., 1986.43.158. Courtesy National Gallery of Art, Washington. © 2017 Kate Rothko Prizel and Christopher Rothko/Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York