The Rothko Chapel, a revered non-denominational sanctuary in Houston, Texas, sustained significant damage from Hurricane Beryl last month and will remain closed for the foreseeable future. The chapel, renowned for its 14 murals by Abstract Expressionist painter Mark Rothko, was hit hard by heavy rain and gale-force winds that caused leaks in the roof and water damage throughout the structure.
The storm damaged parts of the ceiling and several walls, and three of Rothko’s iconic paintings were also affected. The full extent of the damage and the estimated cost of repairs are still under evaluation. Houston-based Whitten & Proctor Fine Art Conservation will oversee the conservation analysis and assess the damage to the artwork and the building.
In light of the closure, previously scheduled programs may be relocated to alternate venues, with further details to be announced. The Rothko Chapel, a spiritual and cultural landmark, will remain closed until restoration efforts are complete.
The Rothko Chapel press office wrote: Due to damage sustained during Hurricane Beryl last month, the Rothko Chapel has determined that it must remain closed to the public indefinitely.
Exceptionally heavy rain and gale-force winds during the storm resulted in some leakage through the Chapel’s roof. Part of the ceiling and several walls sustained water damage, and three of Mark Rothko’s panels were also affected to varying degrees. The Chapel has engaged Whitten & Proctor Fine Art Conservation, one of the country’s premier art-conservation firms, to lead the conservation analysis and assessment, with the total cost of repairs and the extent of the damage still being determined.
“We are deeply saddened by the impact of the hurricane on the Chapel and across Houston,” said Executive Director David Leslie. “The Chapel’s continued stewardship of this beloved cultural and sacred site, renowned for its Mark Rothko panels, remains our highest priority, and the closure will ensure that the necessary repairs and restorations can be made as effectively and completely as required. Our focus now is on restoring the building and panels and continuing our mission of contemplation and action at the intersection of art, spirituality, and human rights.”
During the closure, the Chapel also assesses its fall program season, which may include programming at alternate venues throughout Houston. Additional details are forthcoming. The Suzanne Deal Booth Welcome House, located at 1410 Sul Ross Street, will remain open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday to provide information and hospitality to visitors.
The Chapel is currently assessing a still-developing situation and will continue to share information as it becomes available.
For the latest updates and information on how best to support the Chapel’s recovery efforts. Visit the website at rothkochapel.org.
Top Photo: The Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas. Courtesy of the Rothko Chapel.