We were lucky to catch up with Isaac Perelman recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Isaac thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

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Dot Fiftyone Gallery, since its inception in 2002, stands as a testament to the evolution of contemporary art in Miami itself. Founded by Isaac Perelman alongside Alfredo Guzman, our gallery emerged as a pioneering force in a city that was just beginning to embrace contemporary art.

In those early years, our space served as a hub for experimentation, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and push the boundaries of artistic expression. While challenges were plentiful, so too were the rewards. As Miami underwent its own transformation, so did Dot Fiftyone, adapting to the changing landscape while remaining dedicated to nurturing artistic talent. Our enduring mission has been to support artists and witness their growth over the years, a source of immense pride, as we see the impact of our collaboration, reflected in the flourishing careers of those we’ve championed.

The trajectory of Miami’s art scene mirrors our own journey. Once devoid of major art fairs and contemporary art circuits, the city has blossomed into a thriving cultural epicenter, boasting renowned institutions and galleries. Collectors now flock to Miami, drawn not only by its sunny allure but also by the diverse tapestry of artistic expression that saturates its streets.

As we commemorate twenty-two years of Dot Fiftyone, we acknowledge the boldness and perseverance required to sustain a gallery project in such a dynamic and evolving city. Our commitment remains steadfast, our passion unwavering. We look to the future with optimism, knowing that our role in shaping Miami’s artistic landscape is far from over.

Isaac , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Isaac Javier Perelman, co-founder together with Alfredo Guzman of Dot Fiftyone Gallery in 2002, has established himself as a pivotal figure in both the cultural and artistic spheres of Miami. His multifaceted contributions span various roles and initiatives, showcasing his dedication to the advancement of the arts.

In June 2005, Isaac assumed the role of First Vice President of 2B, demonstrating his commitment to organizational leadership and management. Concurrently, he actively collaborated with the Central Agency for Jewish Education during the Miami Jewish Film Festival, underscoring his involvement in community-driven cultural events.

One of Isaac’s notable achievements was spearheading the development of the “First Latin and South Florida Art Encounter” in Seravezza, Italy, in partnership with the Department of Art and History at Florida International University. This international collaboration highlighted his vision for fostering artistic exchange and cultural dialogue on a global scale.

Isaac Perelman’s academic background is extensive, encompassing a bachelor’s degree in advertising from the Foundation for Higher Studies in Commercial Sciences in Buenos Aires, Argentina, an associate degree in arts from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, California, and a Diploma in Television Production from the RH Institute of Cinematography and Television in Buenos Aires. These diverse educational pursuits have undoubtedly enriched his professional acumen across multiple domains.

From 2002 to 2006, Isaac served as a producer for various cultural television series produced in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Miami under Nativa Productions, showcasing his versatility and creative prowess in the realm of media production.

Furthermore, Isaac Perelman’s leadership extends to his roles as the former President of the Miami Art Dealer Association (MADA) and as a key member of the Board of Directors of the Wynwood Arts District Association (WADA). In these capacities, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication to supporting and promoting artists and galleries in the region, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Miami’s vibrant artistic community. Isaac’s commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and advocacy within the arts underscores his enduring impact and legacy in Miami’s cultural landscape.

About Dot Fiftyone Gallery,

Dot Fiftyone Gallery is a Miami-based gallery that specializes in contemporary art. Established in 2002 by Alfredo
Guzman and Isaac Perelman, the gallery has a distinct focus on representing emerging, established, and local
artists from the Global South who are regarded in their home countries but considered underrecognized in
North America. Workshops, lectures, events, and philanthropy are also part of the gallery program. Located in
the neighborhood of Little Haiti, Dot Fiftyone Gallery boasts one of the longest-running contemporary art
galleries in the city with a strong collector base in Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles, and Latin America.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.

Back in 2001, in partnership with the Department of Art and History at Florida International University, I produced an exhibition showcasing artists from Latin America and South Florida. This exhibition took place in the historic palace-museum of the Medicis in the town of Seravezza, located in the Tuscany region of Italy. The exhibition was titled “First Latin and South Florida Art Encounter” in Seravezza, Italy.

It was during this event that I had the opportunity to collaborate with architect Alfredo Guzman. I had invited him to oversee the art direction and installation of the exhibition. His exceptional results and the impact of his work on the audience, coupled with his professionalism and talent, led me to consider him as the ideal partner to initiate the gallery project. Additionally, Alfredo owned an old building at the intersection of Miami’s Design District and the emerging Wynwood Art District at that time.

The enthusiasm generated by the success of this show in Italy, along with the perception that Miami was evolving into one of the new hubs of contemporary art, motivated us to create Dot Fiftyone gallery in the vacant building owned by Alfredo. Our collaboration stemmed from a shared vision of leveraging Miami’s art scene and providing a platform for diverse artistic expressions.

Our meeting in Seravezza marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that not only brought our artistic visions to life but also contributed to the cultural landscape of Miami. Through our gallery, we aimed to foster creativity, promote dialogue, and showcase the rich tapestry of artistic talent from both local and international perspectives.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

The initial capital to open the gallery was a combination of savings I had accrued, the property owned by my partner, and a contribution of funds from him as well. Additionally, we secured a small loan from the bank to cover the renovation and enhancement of the building, as well as to manage the expenses of the gallery’s first year of operation and the production of exhibitions. Furthermore, a selection of artworks provided to us on consignment by artists proved to be immensely helpful in establishing a modest initial inventory for sales.

Pooling together our resources, both financial and material, allowed us to lay the foundation for our business venture. It was a strategic blend of personal investment, leveraging existing assets, and securing external financing that enabled us to realize our vision for the gallery. This initial capital served as the fuel to kickstart our operations and set us on the path towards establishing a successful presence in the upcoming years.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://dotfiftyone.com
• Instagram: @dotfiftyone.gallery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dotfiftyonegallery/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-perelman-0714683
• Twitter: @FiftyoneDot
• Youtube: @DotFiftyoneGallery
• Other: Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/user69985820

Image Credits
Image credits to DoT Fiftyone Gallery, Leslie Gabaldon, Edson Smitter and Zachary Balber