MELBOURNE, 2025-06-17 11:16:00
Finding Solace in a Rothko
Sometimes, all you need is a moment with art. A quick visit to the National Gallery of Victoria to stand before a Mark Rothko painting can offer a profound sense of peace.
On a recent Sunday afternoon, the simple act of wanting to see a Rothko painting sparked a journey of contemplation. It wasn’t about a lengthy gallery tour, but rather a focused encounter with one specific artwork.
Australia is fortunate to have free access to permanent collections in state galleries. These public collections belong to everyone, a space for enjoyment and reflection. This access encourages a closer relationship with art, fostering personal connections and the joy of discovery.
- Art can provide a sense of peace and calm.
- Public art galleries in Australia are free to access.
- Spending time with a single artwork can be a powerful experience.
Is it possible to find a moment of tranquility in the presence of art? The answer, as experienced during a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), is a resounding yes.
Mark Rothko, renowned for his color field paintings, masterfully evokes emotional depths through large canvases filled with color. His ability to capture the essence of human emotions is remarkable.
The NGV houses Rothko’s “Untitled (Red),” painted in 1956. A favorite quote from the artist adorns the wall text, stating, “I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions – tragedy, ecstasy, doom and so on.”
The painting, dominated by a thin dusky red, is punctuated by three squares of color: a rich blood red, a light rose pink, and a terracotta orange. The immersive experience allowed for quiet contemplation and a sense of peace.
Art, as suggested by happiness researcher Arthur Brooks, expands our perception of the outside world, fostering a panoramic vision. This is the opposite of a stress response.
Visiting a Rothko, or any artwork, encourages a slowing down of time. The world fades away, and the moment becomes all-encompassing, fostering a unique connection between the viewer and the art.
This experience highlights the value of short, focused gallery visits. Whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or video piece, these moments are a privilege. Our public art collections belong to us; we should seize opportunities to connect with them.
