Rothko

<p>Resisting interpretation or classification, <strong>Mark Rothko (1903–1970)</strong> was a prominent advocate for the artist’s consummate freedom of expression. Although identified as a key protagonist of the<strong> Abstract Expressionist</strong> movement, first formed in New York City, Rothko rejected the label and insisted instead on <strong>“a consummated experience between picture and onlooker.”</strong><br /><br /> Following a repertoire of figurative works, Rothko developed his now iconic canvases of <strong>bold color blocks</strong> in red, yellow, ochre, maroon, black, or green. With these shimmering, pulsating color masses, Rothko stressed that he had not removed the human figure but rather put symbols or shapes in its place. These intense color forms contained <strong>all the tragedy of the human condition</strong>. At the same time, Rothko explicitly empowered the viewer in the expressive potential of his work. He believed <strong>“A picture lives by companionship, expanding and quickening in the eyes of the sensitive observer.”</strong><br /><br /> From his early development through to his most famous color fields, this book introduces the intellect and influence of Rothko’s dramatic, intimate, and revolutionary work.</p>