Join in one or more virtual programs reflecting on Rothko Chapel’s past and looking into its future at the virtual 50th anniversary celebration this weekend, from Friday, February 26 through Sunday, February 28, 2021.
Though it’s hard to believe, the Rothko Chapel on the Menil Campus is turning 50. Although the facility has “quietly reflective” baked into its very bones, the current pandemic means that the celebration is more muted than it might have been in other years and is happening entirely online.
John and Dominique de Menil first revealed Rothko Chapel to the public over three days at the end of February in 1971.
Since its dedication, the Rothko Chapel has served as a spiritual space, a forum for world leaders, and a space for solitude and gathering. Founded on a platform of radical inclusiveness far ahead of its time, the Chapel has long operated at the vanguard of social justice, hosting colloquia for scholars and religious leaders from around the globe to engage in discussions on issues affecting human rights, and to work towards a culture of mutual understanding.
This year the chapel celebrates 50 years as a landmark of modern sacred art, as a celebrated site for transformative and inspirational experiences, and as an organization working at the vanguard of human rights, and social, racial, economic and environmental justice.
And if you want to soak in the reflective silence in person, Rothko Chapel is currently open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, including holidays. Free, timed arrival tickets are available online. Secure your ticket or get more information.
Rothko Chapel’s 50th Anniversary Events
- Rothko Chapel & the Journey of Its Restoration Discussion | Friday, February 26 | FREE – Tune in to learn about the recent enhancements, improvements, and fixes to Rothko Chapel and its grounds. The talk will explore the chapel’s original design, the importance of light within it, the growing campus, and the creative process of the restoration team. Free, with a suggested donation of $5 to $20. 6pm.
- Rothko Chapel: An Oasis for Reflection Book Release | Saturday, February 27 | FREE – Commemorating the new release of Rothko Chapel: An Oasis for Reflection, this virtual talk and discussion will showcase the book’s contributors speaking about the chapel’s history and the restoration project. Free, with a suggested donation of $5 to $20. 6pm.
- 50th Anniversary Interfaith Service & Community Celebration | Sunday, February 28 | FREE – The headlining event of the weekend, the interfaith service and celebration will focus on renewing and strengthening the chapel’s commitment to serve as a welcoming interfaith sanctuary for all and a place to rally around the significant human rights issues of the day. Expect Sufi whirling, prayers, reflections, and music. 2pm to 4pm.
Check for more upcoming events from Rothko Chapel.
Rothko Chapel’s Virtual 50th Anniversary Celebration
- Dates: Friday, February 26 through Sunday, February 28, 2021
- Times: Times vary by date. Get specific event details.
- Watch: All events will livestream on Vimeo
- Admission: All events are free with registration, but some events have encouraged donations to support the Rothko Chapel. Register, get more information, or make a donation.