Rothko Chapel Closes After Sustaining Damage in Act of God

Mark Rothko 1903-1970, Latvia Follow +

The Rothko Chapel, a spiritual space that contains 14 murals by colour field painter Mark Rothko, has closed indefinitely after sustaining damage from Hurricane Beryl. At least 36 people died in Houston during the storm, which brought exceptionally heavy rains and gale-force winds.

Executive Director David Leslie said in a statement, ‘we are deeply saddened by the impact of the hurricane on the Chapel and across Houston.’

Leslie said the closure was necessary to make repairs and restorations ‘as effectively and completely as required.’

‘Our focus now is on the restoration of the building and panels, and on continuing our mission of both contemplation and action at the intersection of art, spirituality, and human rights,’ he said.

The Rothko Chapel is considering alternative venues for its fall programme.

In April, work began on a U.S. $42 million expansion of the Rothko Chapel that will see the addition of a new administration and archives building, a new programme centre, guest bungalow, plaza, and meditation garden.

The expansion, which is slated for completion in 2026, follows $30 million renovations finished in 2021. —[O]

Main image: The Rothko Chapel. Photo: Jack Lee.