Michelle Hinz Art Gallery: How to Paint Rothko Style

Mark Rothko, an American born in Russia in 1903, helped define the abstract expressionism movement. This movement was defined by diverse styles and techniques that emphasized the freedom to express attitudes and emotions. It was also defined by breaking away from standard painting techniques and subject matter.

Rothko used small and large fields or bands of color that were painted different sizes. He was known to exaggerate brush strokes, accentuate the use of line, texture and light.

Rothko passed away in 1970 but his paintings are still popular especially among art enthusiasts who enjoy bright bold colors and contemporary artwork.

How to Paint a Rothko Painting:

1. Select several colors. (Suggestion:  choose colors to match your home or space where you desire to hang the work).
2. Select a canvas that is rectangular in format such as a 24x30 or 24x36.
3. Position the canvas in the portrait format.
4. Apply one color of paint to the entire canvas and let dry completely.
5. Using a large flat brush, select your second color and paint a rectangle on the top of half the canvas. Don’t worry about making your lines perfect. Lose, rough lines are more expressive.
6. Next, paint another rectangle using another color on the bottom half of the canvas and let dry completely.
7. Take a fourth color of paint and paint a thick, roughly drawn line between the two rectangles.
8. Congratulations, you’ve just painted your own Rothko style painting!

The Michelle Hinz Art Gallery hosts a series of 2-hour Art Workshops using the painting process to encourage others to ‘enjoy the journey.’ This week we have 4 workshops scheduled and some spaces still available. For more information and the schedule of workshops, visit the website at: www.michellehinz.com or facebook page: www.facebook.com/MichelleHinzArtGallery