Mark Rothko (1903-1970) was an influential American painter known for his iconic abstract expressionist works. Born as Markus Yakovlevich Rothkowitz on September 25, 1903, in Dvinsk, Russia (now Daugavpils, Latvia), Rothko immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of ten, settling in Portland, Oregon. His early exposure to the vibrant colors and landscapes of the Pacific Northwest greatly influenced his artistic sensibilities.

Rothko's artistic journey was marked by a gradual shift towards abstraction. He initially experimented with various styles, including figurative and surrealist elements. However, it was during the 1940s that he began developing his signature style characterized by large, rectangular color fields. These paintings, often consisting of softly blurred blocks of intense hues, were intended to evoke emotional responses and create a profound sense of spirituality and transcendence.

Rothko's work gained widespread recognition and critical acclaim, and he became one of the leading figures of the abstract expressionist movement. His compositions, devoid of recognizable imagery, aimed to evoke emotional depth and contemplation. Rothko believed that his paintings were more than mere objects; they were immersive experiences that could engage viewers on a spiritual level.

Tragically, Rothko battled with depression and struggled with the commercialization of his art. Despite his success, he felt increasingly disillusioned with the art world and its commodification. On February 25, 1970, Rothko took his own life at the age of 66. Today, his profound contributions to abstract art continue to captivate audiences, with his large-scale paintings displayed in major museums and galleries around the world. Rothko's work remains an enduring testament to the power of color, form, and emotion in the realm of abstract expressionism.