When I go to the National Gallery of Victoria the paining I MUST see is Mark Rothko’s Red. When I go to the NGV I often end up in contemplation before Rothko’s Red. It is made for contemplation and only requires the time to just be still in front of it.
A New Language
Rothko is a painter of abstract colour. There are shapes which are not shapes made of colours that float on the canvass. The meld, but do not fully mix or blend. Distinct as individual components although they are wholly connected to each other.
Rothko’s work is a search for a new language. A different way to express emotions. Red glows. It is almost effervescent in its bright hues. Yet the softness of Rothko’s painting does not overwhelm. It is a delight that will intrigue and captivate you as you continue to look upon it.
That there is a Rothko that people can see in Australia is amazing. The NGV does a great job of placing it within the context of the era it comes from. Being able to see the colours and the size of the piece lends so much more than a photo could ever achieve.
Communion Is For All
Please, if you do get a chance to see any Rothko painting take your time. Use a chair or the floor if you get a bit tired from standing. Not many paintings can lend the interactive experience that Rothko’s work gives to the viewer.
Rothko’s work calls you to commune with it. Religious is often a word used to describe the experience you have with Rothko’s paintings. Like the Ikons of Eastern and Greek Orthodox religious paintings there is an opportunity to let the painting talk to you.
Unlike the strict symbolism in Ikons Rothko’s colours lend themselves to the viewers cultural symbolism. Which will change the meaning of the painting for each and every person who views it. In trying to find a new visual language Rothko has made his works accessible for almost everyone.
Phillip Hall has been too long in Melbourne to see AFL in the same light as those back in Fremantle. East Fremantle born and bred, he would love to see the Dockers back in the eight. But would settle for just beating West Coast twice a year.
