Fernando Zóbel de Ayala y Montojo (Manila, Philippines, August 27, 1924 - Rome, Italy, June 2, 1984) was a Spanish abstract painter.

Son of Enrique Zóbel de Ayala, belonging to one of the most influential families in the Philippines.

His first exhibition was in Boston in 1951, and then he exhibited in Manila in 1952. One of the main artistic influences of that period was Mark Rothko, as well as photography and its almost infinite possibilities.

Starting in the 1960s, he began an evolution as an abstract painter, developing a characteristic style, in which Chinese calligraphy undoubtedly represents one of the most evident influences.

His death occurred in Rome on June 2, 1984 due to a heart attack.

His works are part of the collections of important museums around the world.

selected works

exhibitions