Mark Rothko and Mysticism.

1 Introduction In this paper I am going to concentrate on the mystical implications of the work of the well known abstract painter Mark Rothko [1903-1970]. First I will sketch a brief description of the history of the beginning of abstract painting and its relation to mysticism and spirituality. Than I will give a few details on Rothko's biography. Finally I will describe what mysticism means. 1.1 Abstract Art. In one sense, abstract painting is ancient; in …

…and immediate intuition of the Infinite. Mysticism has many schools and shapes. Sometimes it is speculative, and concentrates on knowledge and nothing further; sometimes it is practical and attempts to guide life and action. Sometimes it is contemplative, and emphasises intelligence; sometimes it is affective and emphasises emotion. It can be Orthodox, and agree with the established religious teachings; it can also be - and many times it is - heterodox, and oppose these teachings.