The Rothko Chapel has announced that it will reopen to the public on Tuesday, December 17, following a five-month closure due to damage from Hurricane Beryl.
Rothko Chapel. Photo by: Elizabeth Felicella
In July, the Chapel roof sustained damage that resulted in leakage affecting parts of the ceiling, walls, and four panels by Mark Rothko. The organization worked with Whitten & Proctor Fine Art Conservation to analyze and assess the damage. While the walls and ceiling have been repaired and repainted, the artworks are still undergoing restoration at an off-site facility. A timeline has not been offered regarding their return to the Chapel.
In a press release, David Leslie, Executive Director of the Chapel, said “Since the storm, our focus has been on the complete repair of the building, the restoration of the damaged panels, and on the reopening of the Chapel so the public once again has access to this beloved space for contemplation and meditation. Getting to this point has been a true community effort involving an amazing team of art conservators, scientists, art handlers, volunteers, community partners, and Chapel staff, and we are very excited to reopen in time for the holidays.”
Despite the closure, the Chapel has continued its programming at off-site locations. It will host its first program back at the building on January 15, 2025 — its annual MLK Observance Sick of War: Discussing Health Impacts of US Militarism. Currently, the Suzanne Deal Booth Welcome House (at 1410 Sul Ross Street) is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. When the Chapel reopens on December 17, the Welcome House will resume normal hours: Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For additional updates visit the Rothko Chapel’s website.
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