The Aftermath of Hurricane Beryl: Rothko Chapel Temporarily Closed

The recent storm, Hurricane Beryl, left a trail of destruction in Houston, particularly affecting the iconic Rothko Chapel. The Chapel has been forced to shut its doors indefinitely as a result of damage sustained during the natural disaster.

Heavy rain and strong winds caused leaks in the Chapel’s roof, leading to additional damage to the ceiling and walls. In response to this crisis, the Chapel has enlisted the help of an art conservation firm to assess the full extent of the damage and develop a plan for repairs.

Addressing the unfortunate circumstances, Rothko Chapel Executive Director David Leslie expressed his deep sadness, stating, “The Chapel’s continued stewardship of this beloved cultural and sacred site remains our highest priority. The closure will allow for necessary repairs and restorations to be completed effectively and comprehensively.”

While the main Chapel remains closed, the welcome house will continue to offer information to visitors. Unfortunately, it remains uncertain how long the closure will last.

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. Open to the public every day of the year at no charge, the Chapel was founded in 1971 as an interfaith, nonsectarian sanctuary by Houston philanthropists Dominique and John de Menil. Visitors from around the world are invited to experience the power and sanctity of Mark Rothko’s monumental paintings. As an independent non-profit organization, the Rothko Chapel’s mission is to create opportunities for spiritual growth and dialogue that inspire action towards a world where all are treated with dignity and respect.