Mark Rothko

Mark Rothko is one of the most important artists of our time. This monograph provides a survey of the extraordinary range of his creative output
This beautifully produced, oversized monograph presents about 100 works (70 paintings in full color plates and about 28 drawings) from private and public collections. The selection of paintings will respect different principles. In the case of Rothko’s early work, the monograph will particularly focus on his relatively small paintings on gesso board, the use of which tends to give the pigment an affresco quality with delicate hues and a subtle texture. This aspect is further explored in his Surrealist works, in which the techniques of thin strata of painting and a chalky appearance of colour is further enhanced.
Rothko’s mature work can be divided in three sections: a group of paintings from the early 1950s, ten paintings that were shown at the 1958 Venice Biennale and finally the nucleus of the former Panza Collection. The Blackform paintings from the 1960s and the ultimate Black on Greys works will conclude the monograph, culminating in an even more austere art that also point to new artistic horizons.
A fine selection of works on paper is also included to outline specific aspects of each period of Rothko’s artistic career.
The book also includes a tribute by Michelangelo Antonioni, an interview by Gillo Dorfles, a preface by Christopher Rothko, 5 essays by international specialists, a chronology and a complete bibliography.
Oliver Wick, critic and art historian, is guest curator at the Fondation Beyeler, Riehen/Basel.