Rothko Chapel

Rothko's Psychosis rubs off on the staff!

by Freddy Swerdlin

Rothko is supposed to be a spiritual experience, but you wouldn't know it by their staff. After hearing all the hype about Rothko, my wife and I decided to visit for our anniversary. There were a couple of families visiting, one with noisy children. One of the matrons grabbed my wife by the arm and demanded that she "get these children under control". When she tried to explain that we don't have children, the matron called my wife a liar! I certainly didn't expect my wife to be accosted by the staff!

The best place to find yourself !

by jewelryjunkie

If you are visiting Houston this place in the museum district is a must.

It is free to the public and is really easy to get to. Plus there is plenty of parking.

The Rothko Chapel is such a special place that I really have to stop and take a deep breath

when I think of how many native houstonians have never been here.

Even people who have been to the Menil Collection.

Mark Rothko's paintings are very unique. He does have other more vibrant colorful work, but

the paintings here create the atmosphere of deep thought or meditation.

It is quite but you have to remember you are in a chapel. If you stay here long enough you will

find a little inner peace within the countries fourth largest city.

Writing a review just doesn't do justice to the value of this historical Houston Landmark.

Even if it doesn't seem like something you would do...

DO IT !

Open your mind to new ideas about what a chapel or a place of solice can bring.

• Pros: Tranquil Ambience, a Museum District Must !
• Cons: people with closed minds who don't understand the meaning behind the structure !

Meh...

by conditional

I stopped by the Rothko Chapel after hearing all the good things about it. What everyone says is true - yes, it's very austere, but it's also very calming and meditative. It took me awhile to realize that the painted panels were actually abstract works of art with very subtle color distinctions, but once I did I was mesmerized by them.

The only downside would be the staff that works there. I was the only one in the chapel, but the experience was partially ruined by the suspicious 'guard' that followed me in and stood in the doorway to make sure I didn't touch anything. There were even signs saying "Please do not sit on the benches" that tainted the atmosphere (this begs the question - where do people sit in this place?).

In any case, it doesn't cost anything so it's worth a visit.

• Pros: Zen-like atmosphere open to the public...
• Cons: ...as long as you're willing to be monitored closely as you stand around awkwardly.

Free spirituality

by halyce

The Rothko Chapel is not a museum, nor should it be mistaken for one. It is, as its name clearly states, a chapel. It is a haven for people of all creeds, religious or otherwise. It is one of the few holy sites in Houston, so it should be appreciated as such.

Rothko Fiasco

by cherivinzant

If this is the best that Houston has to offer then shame on our fair city. This was a run-down, outdated, empty space with nothing but black panels on 8 walls. I can make more color and interest by shutting my eyes as tight as I can until spots appear before them as I did as a young child when told to take a nap when I was not sleepy.

I am a huge fan of the arts, especially opera and thought that this would be a good way to spend my Columbus Day holiday from work. I should have stayed at home in bed with the covers over my head!

• Pros: nice weather, free
• Cons: , psuedo-structure, embarrassment