The Rothko Chapel is closed to the public for an indefinite period of time due to damage from Hurricane Beryl. The Welcome House is open 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday. Please continue to check our website for updates related to opening hours as more information becomes available.
August 14, 2024
Due to damage sustained during Hurricane Beryl last month, the Rothko Chapel has determined that it must remain closed to the public for an indefinite period of time.
Exceptionally heavy rain and gale-force winds during the storm resulted in some leakage through the Chapel’s roof. Part of the ceiling and several walls sustained water damage, and three of Mark Rothko’s panels were also affected to varying degrees. The Chapel has engaged Whitten & Proctor Fine Art Conservation, one of the country’s premier art-conservation firms, to lead the conservation analysis and assessment, with the full cost of repairs and the extent of the damage still being determined.
"We are deeply saddened by the impact of the hurricane on the Chapel and across Houston," said Executive Director David Leslie. "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.”
During the closure, the Chapel is also assessing its fall program season, which may include programming at alternate venues throughout Houston, with additional details forthcoming. The Suzanne Deal Booth Welcome House, located at 1410 Sul Ross Street, will remain open from 11am to 5pm Tuesday through Sunday to provide information and hospitality to those who visit.
The Chapel is currently assessing what is still a developing situation, and will continue to share information as it becomes available.
For the latest updates, as well as information on how best to support the Chapel’s recovery efforts, please visit the website at rothkochapel.org.