Mark Rothko

     Today we have one of Mark Rothko's greatest paintings from the height of his career.  It is titled, White Center.   It was painting in 1950 and measures 81" x 56".
In 2007 it was sold by Sothebys to the royal family of Qatar for 72.84 million US dollars, a record for this type of contemporary work. 
   Always, a work of Art must stand on its own merits, no matter who the personality is that conceived and created it, or what conditions existed at the time it was made.  However, for this particular artist and work, I decided to investigate his life and thoughts to confirm my ideas were in keeping with his intent.
   The primary problem with viewing White Center is seeing the painting in this small reproduced state.  This painting is huge and Rothko wanted his viewer to get up close and personal with it.  For Rothko, Art is not to see a window into the world, but rather, to stimulate an emotional experience. 
   Here we have bands or rectangles of changing color.   If we look very closely we can see the translucent layers and layers that make up the painting.  The colors are not there to blend or compliment, but rather to stir!  This is an intellectual exercise.   Try to enlarge the work and pleasantly contemplate without over thinking. 
   I find the arrangement and the hues exciting, stimulating.   How do you react?  I would love to read your comments!
   Make Art a part of your day, it's a beautiful thing to do.

Comments

  1. charguthSeptember 4, 2019 at 5:45 PM

    I agree with your suggestion - not to overthink! I read a quote by him. "A picture lives by companionship, expanding and quickening in the eyes of the sensitive viewer"!! I just had to study it awhile to imagine his mental connection to the work. I am becoming more comfortable with abstract art, and I appreciate the intensity of his work, strong colors, bold brushwork, and defined areas. I feel a strength in his art. Interesting bio too. Thanks for new inspiration.

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