Master of color
From 14 March to 26 July 2026, the Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi will be hosting a major exhibition of works by Mark Rothko (1903–1970), an icon of American modern art. Curated by Christopher Rothko and Elena Geuna, this exhibition explores the influence of Renaissance art on Rothko's artistic research. His deep connection with the city and the art of the Renaissance began in 1950 while he was travelling in Italy with his wife, Mell. He was profoundly impressed by works from the 14th to 16th centuries by the great masters. This special relationship with the city of Florence is explored in an exhibition taking place across various venues, including the Museo di San Marco and the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, which was designed by Michelangelo.
It traces Rothko's entire creative journey, from his early figurative works to his evolution towards his unmistakable abstract style, which began in 1946. Initially, the path unfolds through the Multiform, which is characterised by chromatic masses in equilibrium that progressively simplify into new spatial configurations. In the 1950s, the artist developed his 'classic' style, arranging and overlapping rectangles in binary or ternary rhythms. He created these using a vibrant colour palette of yellow, red, ochre, orange, blue and white. The exhibition stands out due to the exceptional nature of the works on display, including large-scale paintings loaned by the artist's family, international museums and private collectors. Rothko's renowned abstract pieces established him as one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century. This exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the influence of Renaissance art on Rothko's vision, making it an essential stop for art enthusiasts visiting Florence in 2026.
March 14 - July 26, 2026
Monday - Sunday | 10.00 am - 8.00 pm
Thursday 10.00 am - 11.00 pm
VENUE DETAILS
Piazza degli Strozzi | 50123 Firenze
