No. 2, Green, Red and Blue (1953)

Russian-American artist Mark Rothko is regarded as a significant pioneer of Color Field Painting within the category of Abstract Art. Due to a remarkable lack of subject matter in the majority of his paintings, Rothko's works are notable examples of Abstract Art and are most known for their vibrant use of color. Rothko's No. 2, Green, Red, and Blue, one of his well-known works, was created in 1953.

The manifestation of color is the principal subject of Painting No. 2, Green, Red, and Blue. The vivid shades of red, green, and blue represent lighter energy, and Rothko's choice of colors properly reflects the emotional condition he was experiencing at the moment. But as his career developed, it was claimed that Rothko's mental health began to deteriorate rapidly, which caused him to use darker hues in his paintings, like black, gray, and blue. The piece of art known as No. 2, Green, Red, and Blue served as a bridge between his light and dark phases.

Rothko is able to evoke strong feelings in his Abstract Art paintings through the thoughtful use of color.

The red stripe in the center of this painting sharply contrasts with the blue block and unites with the green area of the piece. According to Rothko, the use of color can evoke a range of various interpretations in viewers when they study his artworks since it can delve into fundamental human emotions. No. 2, Green, Red, and Blue were chosen because they were supposed to represent a calmer period in his life.

Artist: Mark Rothko (1903 – 1970)
Date Painted: 1953
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 205.7 cm x 170.5 cm (81 in x 67.1 in)
Where It Is Currently Housed: Private collection