The artwork titled “Blue, Orange, Red,” created by Mark Rothko in 1961, is a profound example of Color Field Painting. Utilizing oil as the medium, this abstract piece embodies the core principles of the art movement to which it belongs. The dimensions of the artwork are 229.2 x 205.9 cm, emphasizing its grand scale and the immersive experience it offers.
“Blue, Orange, Red” presents a vertically oriented composition divided into three predominant rectangular segments. The top and middle sections are dominated by deep blue hues, applied in broad, slightly feathered strokes that create soft transitions at the edges. The bottom section, in stark contrast, is composed of a band of vibrant orange, adding a dynamic tension to the balance of the composition. Surrounding these central fields is a bold border of intense red, which defines the overall form and provides a striking frame for the interplay of colors. The methodology of the application of paint emphasizes Rothko’s mastery in conveying emotion and depth through abstraction, inviting viewers to interpret the subjective feelings and experiences it evokes.