Bridging Cultures

The National Gallery Singapore (NGS) recently mounted a landmark exhibition—its first-ever solo show dedicated to the prolific and influential Spanish-born Filipino artist Fernando Zóbel, who left an indelible mark on Philippine, American and Spanish modernist art scenes.

- 

Prior to its public opening last May 9, distinguished guests from all over the world gathered at the Supreme Court Terrace for a colourful and poignant vernissage. The event was graced by NGS's CEO and director Eugene Tan, who delivered his welcome address; Alejandro Padilla y Zóbel, heir of the celebrated artist, together with his son Beltrán; Gonzalo Mac-Crohon y Padilla, who represented his mother Georgina Padilla y Zóbel, heir of the celebrated artist; NGS's chief curator Patrick Flores, curator Clarissa Chikiamco, Manuel Fontán del Junco, and Felipe Pereda, who worked together for around two years on the exhibition; and distinguished guests from the art scenes of Singapore and the Philippines, some of whom lent their Zóbel pieces to make the exhibition possible.