“No. 6 (Violet, Green and Red)”, painted by Mark Rothko in 1951, is one of the artist’s most famous works from his color field period. Rothko was a key figure in the abstract expressionist movement, and his paintings are known for their large, simple blocks of color that evoke deep emotions and create an immersive visual experience. No. 6 is no exception, featuring a bold yet simple composition that speaks to the viewer on a deeply emotional level.
The painting consists of three dominant colors—violet, green, and red—arranged in large, rectangular blocks that appear to float on the canvas. The colors are not sharply divided but softly blend into one another, creating a sense of movement and depth. Rothko’s technique involved layering thin washes of paint to achieve a glowing, luminous effect, which is characteristic of his style. The simplicity of the composition allows viewers to focus on the emotional impact of the colors themselves.
Rothko did not view his paintings as mere arrangements of color. Instead, he believed his works could convey profound human emotions such as tragedy, ecstasy, and doom. He once stated, “I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions.” For Rothko, the interaction between colors and the space they occupy on the canvas was meant to create an intense emotional experience for the viewer.
No. 6 is part of a series of works that mark Rothko’s shift away from figurative painting to a more abstract, meditative style. Unlike traditional representational art, Rothko’s paintings invite viewers to interpret the work based on their own emotions and experiences. The lack of a clear narrative or subject matter leaves room for personal reflection, making each viewer’s experience unique.
In 2014, No. 6 (Violet, Green and Red) became one of the most expensive paintings ever sold, fetching $186 million in a private sale. This high price reflects the cultural and historical significance of Rothko’s work, as well as the ongoing fascination with abstract expressionism.
Today, Rothko’s paintings, including No. 6, are considered groundbreaking for their ability to evoke powerful emotional responses through minimalistic compositions. His work continues to influence modern art, emphasizing the importance of color, space, and emotional resonance in visual art.