In the 1960s, Mark Rothko's art continued to evolve, reflecting both his mastery of color and a deepening introspection. This period was marked by two significant projects that showcased his interest in creating immersive environments through his art. One was a series of murals commissioned for Harvard University, characterized by a range of tones from red and black to purple and brown, which Rothko described as “scenes from the Easter cycle”—encompassing themes from Christ’s death to his resurrection. The murals are noted for their somber hues reflecting the solemnity of Good Friday contrasted with brighter ones symbolizing Easter and resurrection, demonstrating Rothko's use of color to evoke profound emotional states​ (Artsy)​. Another major project of this era was the commission from collectors John and Dominique de Menil to create paintings for a chapel in Houston, known today as the Rothko Chapel. Rothko produced 14 large-scale paintings in shades of purple and black, intended to create a contemplative space that evokes the infinite. His work for the chapel reflects his continued interest in the spiritual and transcendent potential of art, aiming to provide viewers with a sense of the beyond through his use of dark colors, which he believed could represent windows to infinity​ (Artsy)​. Despite facing health challenges and personal turmoil during this period, including a difficult bout of ill health and a tumultuous time in his personal life, Rothko's artistic output remained vibrant and innovative. An exhibition titled "Mark Rothko 1968: Clearing Away," presented at Pace Gallery, London, focused on his work from the late 1960s, particularly highlighting his paintings on paper. These works, characterized by their jewel-like colors and intimate scale, demonstrated Rothko's continued exploration of color, light, and form. This body of work, created with acrylic paint—a medium Rothko discovered and delighted in during his final years—signifies a renewed enthusiasm for exploring the expressive potential of color. Despite the smaller scale, these paintings maintain the meditative and enveloping qualities that define Rothko's larger canvases, offering viewers an intimate engagement with his vision of boundlessness​ (Pace Gallery)​. Rothko's work in the 1960s, particularly through these significant commissions and his exploration of new mediums and formats, underscores his enduring commitment to probing the depths of human emotion and the spiritual dimensions of art. His legacy from this decade is one of profound impact, not only on the field of abstract expressionism but on the broader trajectory of modern art. For further details on Rothko's work and his impact, you can explore more on Artsy​ (Artsy)​ and Pace Gallery​ (Pace Gallery)​.