“Hierarchical Birds,” created by Mark Rothko in 1944, is an exemplary piece of figurative, surrealist artwork. As part of the Surrealism art movement, this piece is currently housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.
The artwork features an arrangement of abstract bird-like figures, illustrating Rothko’s unique take on Surrealism. The birds are depicted in a variety of shapes and forms, embodying a dreamlike quality. The use of muted colors combined with whimsical and elaborate patterns adds depth to the composition. The imagery in “Hierarchical Birds” provides a fantastical interpretation of the avian realm, inviting viewers to delve into a world of imagination and visual curiosity.