Introduction
Mark Rothko, known for his iconic colour field paintings, is being celebrated at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris. This grand exhibition takes visitors on a journey through his artistic evolution, shedding light on the lesser-known aspects of his career. Curated by Suzanne Pagé and Christopher Rothko, the artist’s son, this retrospective offers a unique opportunity to explore the progression of one of the 20th century’s most influential artists.
Rothko’s Breakthrough: The 1950s
The exhibition begins with a vivid display of Rothko’s breakthrough to colour field abstraction during the 1950s. Visitors are immediately immersed in a world of bright, levitating colours. Works like “Light Cloud, Dark Cloud” (1957) and “No. 9 (Dark over Light Earth/Violet and Yellow in Rose)” (1954) showcase Rothko’s mastery of colour gradients and their subtle changes.
Uncovering Rothko’s Early Works
Mark Rothko’s early works, primarily figurative, offer a glimpse into a different side of the artist. Several untitled pieces from the 1930s depict subway stations and reveal his interest in the delineation of space. An untitled painting from 1941-42, divided into three registers, shows a departure from figuration towards abstraction, foreshadowing his future color field arrangements.
The Journey to Greatness
As Rothko experimented with various styles in the 1940s, he faced criticism from art critics. Nevertheless, the progression from semi-naturalistic figuration to Surrealist-inflected works to unresolved abstraction speaks for his artistic journey. The transition towards the 1950s, characterised by poignant, powerful, and hauntingly beautiful colour field paintings, marks the highlight of his career.
The Iconic “Seagram Murals” and Hidden Treasures
The Foundation Louis Vuitton has secured Rothko’s renowned “Seagram Murals” on loan from Tate Britain, an exceptional opportunity for art enthusiasts. In addition to these iconic works, the exhibition presents slightly lesser-known pieces, such as 1958’s “No. 9 (White and Black on Wine),” which hints at Rothko’s later experiments with tonal juxtapositions.
Beyond the Iconic Masterpieces
The true treasures of this exhibition are the pieces that rarely occupy prime spots in museums. In a gallery titled “Black and Gray, Giacometti,” Rothko’s final series, “Black and Gray” (1969-70), is showcased alongside sculptures by Alberto Giacometti. These works, divided almost at a horizon line, demonstrate Rothko’s use of acrylic and offer a different perspective on his late-career exploration.
A Reflection on Rothko’s Legacy
As the Fondation Louis Vuitton retrospective comes to an end, one cannot help but ponder what Rothko might have achieved had he not tragically passed away in 1970. His oeuvre voices for his innovative and valuable contributions to the art world, with his paintings continuing to evoke contemplation and meditation, making him one of the 20th century’s most significant artists.
In this grand exhibition, Rothko’s evolution is on full display, from his early explorations to his iconic colour field paintings, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for the depth and breadth of his artistic legacy.
Feature Image: Mark Rothko, Slow Swirl at the Edge of the Sea, 1944.©1998 KATE ROTHKO PRIZEL & CHRISTOPHER ROTHKO/ADAGP, PARIS/MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, NEW YORK
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