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No. 37 or No. 19
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Mark Rothko, a towering figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement, created No. 37 or No. 19, a painting that embodies the essence of his artistic philosophy. This piece, characterized by its bold and vibrant color fields, invites viewers to immerse themselves in an emotional journey. The artwork currently resides within the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Abstract Expressionism emerged as a distinct art movement in the United States following World War II. It emphasized the expression of emotions through non-representational forms and colors, marking a significant departure from traditional representational art. Artists like Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, and Clyfford Still were key figures in this movement, seeking to convey profound human experiences through pure abstraction.
No. 37 or No. 19 is a quintessential example of Rothko's signature style, featuring large fields of flat solid color that generate areas of a flat plane and unbroken surface. The painting is dominated by vibrant hues of orange and red, intersected with patches of contrasting colors such as black, white, grey, and yellow. The fluent application of oil paint creates a visually engaging texture, embodying Rothko's hallmark blending of shapes and colors. He achieved this effect through layering thin washes of color, allowing the underlying layers to subtly influence the final appearance – a technique that contributes significantly to the painting’s depth and luminosity. The absence of defined edges between the color blocks further enhances the sense of atmospheric space.
Rothko's mastery in manipulating color fields is evident in this composition, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the depth and emotive quality of the colors and forms. The abstract forms are seemingly placed in an intuitive manner, evoking a range of emotions and thoughts through their ambiguous and non-representational nature. While Rothko resisted definitive interpretations of his work, he intended for these color fields to create a contemplative space where viewers could confront profound feelings – joy, sorrow, or even the sublime. The colors themselves are not merely decorative; they act as vehicles for conveying complex emotional states. The interplay of warm and cool tones creates a dynamic tension that resonates deeply within the viewer.
Mark Rothko's influence on contemporary art is profound. His color field painting style has inspired numerous artists, including Daniella Schweinsberg, Anya Spielman, and Richard Caldicott. His iconic works continue to be celebrated for their ability to evoke powerful emotions and thoughts. For those interested in exploring more of Rothko's works or learning about other artists associated with Abstract Expressionism, visit Abstract Expressionism on TopImpressionists. Additionally, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City has an extensive collection of Abstract Expressionist art, including works by Rothko and other prominent artists of the movement.
"No. 37 or No. 19" belongs to Mark Rothko's Abstract Expressionism work, whose recorded themes include quintessential color field work, represents mature style, key example of abstract expressionism, mythological themes, surrealism exploration, post-wwii anxieties, emotional expression, non-representational forms.
Considering its earthy colors, "No. 37 or No. 19" is suggested for a living room.
To get a print of "No. 37 or No. 19" by Mark Rothko, simply order it on its Fine Art Print page: a fine art print on cotton canvas or archival canvas paper.
Mark Rothko arrived in the United States as a young boy, part of a family moving from Dvinsk, Latvia, to Portland, Oregon, in 1913. His early years were marked by the heavy atmosphere of the Pale of Settlement, where his family lived amidst political unrest and the fear of pogroms. This sense of instability followed him across the ocean. The loss of his father, Jacob, shortly after their arrival in America added a layer of personal grief to the challenges of settling in a new culture. While he studied at Yale University, the pull of New York City eventually led him to leave formal academics behind for the Art Students League.
His upbringing was one of intellect and debate. His father, a pharmacist with socialist leanings, fostered a home where learning was central. This environment, combined with the hardships of the immigrant experience, created a deep sensitivity to human suffering. These early experiences of loss and the struggle to find a place in a chaotic world became the quiet foundation for everything he would later paint.
In his early years in New York, Rothko focused on realism, painting portraits and urban scenes with careful attention to detail. As the 1940s brought the horrors of World War II, his work began to shift. He moved away from recognizable objects, looking instead toward Surrealism and mythology to find a way to express universal human emotions. During this period, his canvases featured biomorphic shapes that seemed to float between being figures and being abstract forms.
By the late 1940s, he had developed the style that would define his career. He stripped away all imagery, leaving only large-scale canvases with rectangular blocks of color. These forms appeared to hover and resonate against one another. He used thin washes of paint to create subtle changes in tone and texture, making the edges of his shapes appear blurred. He often avoided titles, using simple numbers like No. 1 or No. 6 so that viewers could face the work without any preconceived ideas.
Rothko’s mature period is associated with Color Field painting. His goal was to use color to speak directly to the human soul, bypassing the intellect to reach deep emotions such as tragedy, ecstasy, and despair. He meticulously layered paint to create a sense of depth and light that seemed to come from within the canvas itself. These large works were intended to envelop the viewer in an immersive experience.
His commitment to this emotional honesty led to several significant projects:
Despite his immense influence on Abstract Expressionism and the later Minimalist movement, Rothko struggled with depression throughout his life. He died by suicide in 1970. His work remains a central part of modern art history, found in permanent collections such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Tate Modern in London.
1903 - 1970 , Latvia