Mark Rothko - the man who became popular by painting like they do in kindergarten

Mark Rothko, one of the most prominent abstract expressionist artists, is known for his large rectangular fields of color that flow into each other. While Rothko has received much praise for his work, it is also important to analyze his work with a critical eye. Firstly, one could argue that Rothko's paintings are exaggerated in their simplicity. His use of large, monotonous color fields can be perceived as a lack of technical skill. In contrast to other contemporary artists such as Jackson Pollock or Willem de Kooning, who demonstrated great complexity and dynamism in their work, Rothko's style can appear monotonous and one-sided. Furthermore, one can criticize Rothko for his reliance on emotional response from the viewer. His works are often described as "spiritual" or "meditative", but these are subjective interpretations that can vary greatly from person to person. It is possible that some viewers do not experience the deep emotional response that Rothko wanted to evoke, which can cause his works to seem empty and meaningless. Another critical point is Rothko's belief that his art could convey universal emotions. This can be seen as a naive and perhaps arrogant attitude, as it is difficult to claim that a single art form can transcend cultural and individual differences in such a way. The subjective nature of art means that not everyone will or can relate to his work in the same way. Rothko's paintings can also be criticized for their commercialization. Although the artist himself often expressed dissatisfaction with the commercial art world, his works have become some of the most expensive on the art market. This raises questions about the original intention of art versus its role as a commodity in a capitalist society.

Finally, one can question Rothko's contribution to art history. While his influence on abstract expressionism is indisputable, it can be argued that his paintings did not develop or challenge the medium in the same way that other artists of his time did. His persistent use of the same technique and style can be seen as a lack of artistic development and innovation. In sum, while Mark Rothko has undoubtedly left a significant imprint on art history, it is important to acknowledge the critical perspectives that question the depth, complexity and universal relevance of his work.