We had the good fortune of connecting with Iskander Lemseffer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Iskander, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
It was purely out of luck. Before diving into the art world, I was in clothing. A friend of mine had a 5000 sq ft clothing showroom in Downtown LA on the ground floor which was empty for a week. All his collections were in NYC for a trade show. Coincidently, this was during the week the Downtown LA Art Walk was to take place. I offered to throw an art event in his space and share with him the profits. I filled the walls with mostly street art from known and still unknown street artists at the time, live painting, entertainment and a full bar. 400 people showed up, including the press! I sold half my inventory in one night! That’s when I decided to open an art gallery. The next morning I went out looking for a space!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
LMSFR GALLERY offers an eclectic mix of artworks available from both established and emerging artists. Each artist is hand-picked and pieces are curated by a simple question I ask myself: Would I want this hanging in my home? If the answer is yes, then we can hang it at LMSFR.
LMSFR GALLERY is the sequel to LAB ART LOS ANGELES. LAB ART used to be the nation’s largest street art gallery and had launched many up-and-coming artists at the time, which have become very famous today. Ever since LAB ART closed its doors in 2017, I have been wanting to return to the art world, but in a different city and an entirely new environment. Of course, I chose Miami, the new art world capital!
LMSFR GALLERY is a true labor of love. Many hardships, sweat and tears, a lot of hard work and obstacles to overcome, as well as a lot of luck has helped it become a reality. We are currently on-line only until we find the perfect brick and mortar location in sunny Miami!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When a best friend visits, we would start with Joe’s Stone Crab in South Beach. Then Ocean Avenue, Collins, Lincoln Road and my favorite, Española Way. There is a little French restaurant called La Folie which is excellent! Then we would check out Little Havana with all the exciting Cuban bars and restaurants for a Sandwich Cubano and Margaritas. Next would be Brickell to Rosa Sky, the rooftop bar with incredible views and excellent signature cocktails. We would walk around Wynwood with all the vibrant street art! And the Design District for shopping and galleries. The Perez Art Museum is also a must-see!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are definitely many people I would like to thank for their efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement. First and foremost to my mother and stepfather for all their love and support, without whom my dream would probably have never become a reality. I would like to thank my wife for her unconditional love and support, and for believing in me. Also, to many of all the wonderful artists who have become friends over the years, as well as my clients and collectors.

Website: https://www.LMSFR.com

Instagram: @lmsfr_gallery

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