Les Roberts is a name that has become synonymous with fine art in Miami. As the Director of Miami Fine Art Gallery, Les has spent over 15 years curating exceptional collections and connecting people with art that moves and inspires them. But his journey didn’t start in Miami. It began in New York City, where his love for art first took root.
“I grew up surrounded by some of the world’s best museums and galleries,” Les recalls. “Seeing works by masters like Rembrandt and Picasso at a young age left a lasting impression. It showed me that art isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to feel.”
Les took that passion with him to New York University, where he studied Art History and Business. This combination wasn’t random; he knew from the start that he wanted to merge creativity with strategy. His education gave him a deep understanding of both the stories behind the art and the mechanics of the art market. An internship at Sotheby’s solidified his path, offering hands-on experience in curating, valuing, and selling art.
From New York to Miami
In 2008, Les relocated to Miami to take the helm at Miami Fine Art Gallery. At the time, Miami was emerging as a cultural hotspot, thanks in part to events like Art Basel Miami Beach. For Les, the city’s energy and diversity were irresistible.
“Miami is a city where old-world charm meets modern innovation,” Les says. “It’s the perfect backdrop for a gallery that celebrates both classical and contemporary art.”
Under his leadership, the gallery has grown into a respected destination for art collectors worldwide. Les has curated exhibitions that showcase the work of historical icons like Rembrandt and Picasso, as well as contemporary disruptors like Banksy and Jeff Koons. This mix of old and new is deliberate, reflecting his belief that art is a continuous conversation.
“Classical and contemporary art aren’t opposites—they’re part of the same story,” Les explains. “Rembrandt captured the human condition in his time. Banksy does the same thing today, just with a different medium and message.”
A Philosophy of Connection
Les believes that art should be accessible to everyone, not just the elite. This philosophy drives his work at the gallery. Whether he’s working with seasoned collectors or first-time buyers, his approach is the same: focus on the emotional connection.
“Art is deeply personal,” Les says. “I always tell clients, start with what you love. If a piece speaks to you, that’s what matters most.”
This belief extends to how he curates exhibitions. For Les, every show is an opportunity to tell a story. He and his team carefully select pieces that not only stand out individually but also create a narrative when viewed together.
“Good curation isn’t just about picking beautiful works,” he says. “It’s about creating a dialogue. The best exhibitions make you think, feel, and ask questions.”
Lessons from the Old Masters
Despite his forward-thinking approach, Les often draws inspiration from the Old Masters. He cites their mastery of light, shadow, and storytelling as timeless techniques that modern artists can still learn from.
“Rembrandt’s use of light is just incredible,” Les says. “It’s not just about illumination—it’s about creating emotion, depth, and focus. That’s a lesson that applies to any medium, even today.”
But Les also appreciates the innovation of contemporary artists. He highlights figures like Banksy and Jeff Koons as examples of how art continues to evolve while staying rooted in universal themes.
“Art doesn’t stand still,” he says. “Each generation builds on the one before, finding new ways to express old truths.”
A Personal Connection to Art
For Les, his work isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. He sees art as a way to connect with people, share stories, and build bridges between cultures and eras. When asked what drives him, his answer is simple: the joy of seeing others connect with art.
“There’s nothing like watching someone fall in love with a piece,” Les says. “It’s a moment of pure connection, and it reminds me why I do what I do.”
He also finds personal solace in art, particularly when life gets overwhelming. “When I feel unfocused, I take a walk through the gallery,” he shares. “The pieces remind me of the bigger picture—of the emotions and stories that matter most.”
Looking Ahead
As Miami Fine Art Gallery continues to grow, Les remains focused on the future. He’s particularly excited about the role of technology in the art world. Virtual exhibitions, augmented reality, and digital tools are making art more accessible than ever, and Les sees this as a positive shift.
“Technology isn’t replacing traditional art—it’s enhancing it,” he says. “It’s giving more people the chance to experience and connect with art in meaningful ways.”
Les’s ultimate goal is simple: to keep bringing people and art together. Whether it’s through a carefully curated exhibition or a conversation with a client, his work is always about connection.
“Art is about humanity,” Les says. “It tells our stories, shares our emotions, and reminds us of what it means to be alive.”
Key Takeaways
Art is a dialogue. Les Roberts believes classical and contemporary art are part of the same ongoing story, each building on the other.
Start with love. Whether collecting or curating, Les emphasizes the importance of emotional connection over trends.
Art is for everyone. Les is committed to making art accessible, breaking down the notion that fine art is only for the elite.
Read more:
The Visionary Behind Miami Fine Art Gallery: A Spotlight on Les Roberts
