Rothko in Florence: a major exhibition opens at Palazzo Strozzi in 2026

The exhibition, titled Rothko in Florence, is presented by Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi and curated by Christopher Rothko together with Elena Geuna. Conceived specifically for Palazzo Strozzi, the project explores the long-standing relationship between Rothko and Florence, a city the artist visited and studied closely.

A dialogue between architecture, colour and space

Set within the Renaissance architecture of Palazzo Strozzi, the exhibition focuses on how Rothko translated the tension between classical balance and expressive freedom into painting. Through colour, scale and spatial relationships, his work seeks to move beyond the two-dimensional surface of the canvas, creating immersive environments rather than conventional images.

The Florentine setting plays a central role in this approach, offering a historical and architectural framework that echoes Rothko’s interest in proportion, contemplation and the emotional power of space.

More than 70 works from leading international museums

The exhibition retraces the full arc of Rothko’s career, from his early figurative and transitional works to the large colour-field paintings that defined his mature style. The selection includes over 70 works on loan from major international institutions and private collections.

Participating lenders include the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Tatein London, the Centre Pompidou, and the National Gallery of Art.

Satellite sections across the city

Beyond Palazzo Strozzi, the exhibition extends into Florence through two satellite sections located in places that held particular significance for Rothko.

At the Museo di San Marco, selected works are placed in dialogue with the frescoes of Beato Angelico, highlighting shared themes of silence, spirituality and contemplation. A second section is installed in the Vestibule of the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, designed by Michelangelo, where Rothko’s work engages directly with one of the most influential architectural spaces of the Renaissance.

Organization and supporters

The exhibition is promoted and organised by Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi in collaboration with the Museo di San Marco (under Italy’s Ministry of Culture) and the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana. Public supporters include the Municipality of Florence, the Tuscany regional government, the Metropolitan City of Florence and the Florence Chamber of Commerce.

Private supporters include Fondazione CR Firenze, Intesa Sanpaolo, Fondazione Hillary Merkus Recordati and the Palazzo Strozzi Partners Committee.

Rothko in Florence is expected to be one of the major cultural events in Tuscany in 2026, offering residents and international visitors an opportunity to experience Rothko’s work within a city that played a lasting role in shaping his artistic vision.

(Cover photo: Tribute, Mark Rothko Art Centre, Daugavpils, Latvia, October 2017)

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