HOUSTON — Houston's Rothko Chapel was forced to close for an indefinite amount of time due to damage sustained during Hurricane Beryl last month.
Leaks were noticed in the Chapel's roof due to the heavy rain and strong wind. Also, part of the ceiling and some walls were damaged.
They said they hired an art conservation firm to help them figure out the extent of the damage and how to go about making repairs.
"We are deeply saddened by the impact of the hurricane on the Chapel and across Houston," Rothko Chapel Executive Director David Leslie said. "The Chapel’s continued stewardship of this beloved cultural and sacred site, renowned for its Mark Rothko panels, remains our highest priority, and the closure will ensure that the necessary repairs and restorations can be made as effectively and completely as required. Our focus now is on the restoration of the building and panels, and on continuing our mission of both contemplation and action at the intersection of art, spirituality, and human rights."
The Chapel's welcome house will remain open to provide information to visitors.
It's unclear how long it will remain closed.
What is the Rothko Chapel?
Here's how the Rothko Chapel describes itself:
The Rothko Chapel is a contemplative space that successfully interconnects art, spirituality, and compassionate action through a broad array of public programs and community initiatives. It is open to the public every day of the year at no charge. Founded by Houston philanthropists Dominique and John de Menil, the Chapel was dedicated in 1971 as an interfaith, nonsectarian sanctuary, and invites visitors from around the world to experience the power and sanctity of Mark Rothko’s monumental paintings. The Rothko Chapel is an independent non-profit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for spiritual growth and dialogue that illuminate our shared humanity and inspire action leading to a world in which all are treated with dignity and respect.
