Abularach began studying architecture and archaeology in Guatemala but, after only one year, he turned his attention to painting. During the 1950's he worked at the National Archaeology and Ethnology Museum creating museum displays, which introduced him to American anthropological history. The first important works he did as a painter are related to the work of Carlos Mérida and Arturo Martinez, who were known for their exploration of Guatemalan culture. In 1959 he moved to New York permanently and came into contact with contemporary Western Art. At this time he also encountered Zen Buddhism, which had become popular in New York, and this created an East-West dialogue in his work. He eventually became famous for his enlarged images of the human eye. The work of Abularach is a combination of the language of folklore, magic and mysticism, and contemporary concerns.