Fernando Zóbel: Order is Essential

Fernando Zóbel (1924–1984) was more than an artist—he was a visionary who bridged continents, cultures and artistic movements. Born in the Philippines to Spanish parents, Zóbel played a transformative role in shaping modern art in both countries, forging connections between Southeast Asia, Europe and the United States. This beautifully illustrated catalogue accompanies Fernando Zóbel: Order is Essential, an exhibition that traces the evolution of his practice from expressive gesture to refined abstraction. Featuring his iconic Saeta series and works responding to Mark Rothko, Franz Kline and Munakata Shiko, among others, this book explores Zóbel’s dynamic approach to movement, memory and modernism. More than an artist, Zóbel was a collector, mentor and cultural bridge. His legacy endures in the museums he helped establish and in the generations of artists he inspired. This catalogue invites readers to journey through his world, where order and spontaneity meet, and every mark on the canvas offers a possibility of perception.

Publisher: National Gallery Singapore
Author Biography: Patrick Flores is Chief Curator at National Gallery Singapore; Clarissa Chikiamco is Curator at National Gallery Singapore
Language: English
Country of Origin:  Singapore
Page count: 164
Binding: Paperback
Search words:  Modern art; abstract art; Philippine art; Spanish art