Mark Rothko, White Band No. 27, 1954

Abstract art is not everyone’s bag. But the reality is that different forms of abstraction have been crucially important to the evolution of art and, frankly, have influenced many, many motifs we’ve come to accept in contemporary culture. Mark Rothko is a giant in the area of Abstract Expressionism (though he himself hated those labels). If you’ve ever come across one of his paintings in a gallery space, they are quite striking but perhaps you still don’t totally get it. I’m here to tell you, as someone who got his Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, that’s okay.  Abstract art seems simple on first viewing but reveals itself to be far more deep and complicated the longer you ponder it. It can be rewarding and frustrating in equal measure. I may be an artist but I get it, it ain’t always easy to love.

Recently I came upon this 60 second video from the Royal Academy of Arts in London, England that succinctly and clearly explains the impact of the art of Mark Rothko. To me, it is a very helpful minute to guiding anyone to a better appreciation of abstraction. Enjoy.