Rothko Chapel
Houston, TX 77006
Phone: (713) 629-3700
- Cross Street:
- Yupon Street
- Hours:
- Wed-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Tue 10am-6pm
Editorial Review for Rothko Chapel – by Victoria Hodge Lightman
In Short
The chapel boasts a reflection pool and Barnett Newman's "Broken Obelisk" (1967) gracing the front patio. Inside, natural light is diffused through skylights, adding to the peaceful solitude. The chapel houses 14 of color-field abstractionist Mark Rothko's massive canvas panels: three triptychs and five single panels. Rothko, whose work suggests the mythic power of primitive art, painted these between 1965 and 1966 expressly for the chapel, which has inspired meditation and even music.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasThe amazing Menil Collection sits just west of the chapel.
Know Before You GoThe chapel, founded by John and Dominique de Menil, was dedicated in 1971 as an intimate sanctuary available to people of every belief, hosting religious ceremonies for all faiths.
User Reviews for Rothko Chapel
04/25/2007 Posted by jewelryjunkie
If you are visiting Houston this place in the museum district is a must. It is free to the public and is really easy to get to. Plus there is plenty of parking. The Rothko Chapel is such a special place that I really have to stop and take a deep breath when I think of how many native houstonians have never been here. Even people who have been to the Menil Collection. Mark Rothko's paintings are very unique. He does have other more vibrant colorful work, but the paintings here create the atmosphere of deep thought or meditation. It is quite but you have to remember you are in a chapel. If you stay here long enough you will find a little inner peace within the countries fourth largest city. Writing a review just doesn't do justice to the value of this historical Houston Landmark. Even if it doesn't seem like something you would do... DO IT ! Open your mind to new ideas about what a chapel or a place of solice can bring.
Pros: Tranquil Ambience, a Museum District Must !
Cons: people with closed minds who don't understand the meaning behind the structure !
07/27/2006 Posted by conditional
I stopped by the Rothko Chapel after hearing all the good things about it. What everyone says is true - yes, it's very austere, but it's also very calming and meditative. It took me awhile to realize that the painted panels were actually abstract works of art with very subtle color distinctions, but once I did I was mesmerized by them. The only downside would be the staff that works there. I was the only one in the chapel, but the experience was partially ruined by the suspicious 'guard' that followed me in and stood in the doorway to make sure I didn't touch anything. There were even signs saying "Please do not sit on the benches" that tainted the atmosphere (this begs the question - where do people sit in this place?). In any case, it doesn't cost anything so it's worth a visit.
Pros: Zen-like atmosphere open to the public...
Cons: ...as long as you're willing to be monitored closely as you stand around awkwardly.
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