Mark Rothko's “color field” paintings, once static and timeless, have found a dynamic new dimension. Through the project Current Rothko, by designer Joonas Virtanen, they now mirror real-world weather conditions.

The website allows users to input any location on Earth and receive a Rothko painting that typifies the local climate—whether it be the vivid hues of a clear day or the muted tones of a stormy sky. The algorithm selects from 89 paintings, each meticulously tagged with color information, brightness and mood.

Rothko’s canvases are transformed into ever-changing pieces, adapting to the atmosphere outside your window. A sunny day in Chicago might bring forth “No. 5/No. 22” (1950), while a drizzly afternoon could present “Black on Maroon (Seagram V)” (1958). It’s a unique blend of art and nature, offering viewers a fresh perspective on Rothko's meditative works.

This project not only reinvigorates our appreciation for Rothko’s masterpieces but also provides a reflective moment in today's fast-paced world. As the weather shifts, so too do the paintings, creating an ever-changing dialogue between artist and audience.