Mark Rothko cover art

Mark Rothko

Mark Rothko

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

 Mark Rothko, born Marcus Rothkowitz in 1903 in the Russian Empire, was a key figure in Abstract Expressionism and a pioneer of Color Field painting. Fleeing antisemitic persecution, his family emigrated to the United States in 1913. After studying at Yale and moving to New York, Rothko began a transformative artistic journey. Influenced by Surrealism and Henri Matisse, his early works evolved into the large-scale color compositions that defined his mature style. His iconic paintings feature luminous, blurred blocks of color that aim to evoke profound emotional responses. Rothko’s work from 1949 onward focused on non-figurative, meditative spaces, with precise viewing conditions he personally dictated. He believed paintings lived only through emotional interaction with the viewer. Rothko’s career saw major exhibitions, global recognition, and skyrocketing art market success—yet his personal life was marked by struggle. Diagnosed with aortic aneurysm and battling depression, he died by suicide in 1970. His final works, and the Rothko Chapel in Houston, reflect his deep spiritual and psychological concerns. This video explores Rothko’s visionary legacy, tragic end, and the timeless resonance of his art.
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.