Fabián Pérez: the Argentine artist who transforms dreams into portraits in the U.S.

Fabián Pérez is a name that resonates not only in the realm of contemporary art but also in the history of immigrants who have made the United States their home in pursuit of a dream. Born in the Buenos Aires city of Campana, Argentina, this visual artist has traveled a path filled with challenges and achievements that have led him to become a renowned portraitist, capturing the essence of personalities as diverse as Pope Francis, Diego Maradona, and Al Pacino. At 57 years old, Fabián lives in Los Angeles, where he has established his own studio and art gallery in the famous Melrose Art District. However, his journey was not easy. From a young age, he was forced to abandon his dream of becoming a professional soccer player, a longing that faded when life presented him with the harsh reality of being orphaned. It was only thanks to the influence of his martial arts teacher, Oscar Higo, that he found himself in the world of art, where he discovered his true talent. The style that Fabián developed, known as Neo-Emotionalism, has impacted a number of celebrities and influential figures. His work has been a vehicle for expressing deep emotions, allowing him to connect with people from various backgrounds. Among his most notable portraits is that of Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, the goalkeeper of the Argentine National Team, who, after being named the best goalkeeper in the world, became the protagonist of one of Pérez's most admired collections. Life in Los Angeles has provided Fabián with the opportunity to connect with influential people. He asserts that conquering this city was a milestone in his life, although initially, the competition and difficulties were overwhelming. With perseverance and dedication, he managed to carve a path in the competitive art world, participating in fairs and exhibitions that allowed him to showcase his work to collectors from around the globe. One of the most memorable moments of his career was when he had the opportunity to present a portrait to Pope Francis. “It was an incredible experience. I remember that after the presentation, the Pope called me back because he wanted to see me again,” he recounts with emotion. This anecdote reflects the connection that Fabián has managed to establish not only through his art but also through his humanity and his ability to touch the lives of those around him. Pérez stands out not only for his impressive list of portraits but also for his commitment to charitable causes. His partnership with the After-School All-Stars foundation, led by Arnold Schwarzenegger, exemplifies his desire to give back to the community. “It is rewarding to know that through my art, I can help underprivileged children gain access to educational programs and extracurricular activities,” he emphasizes. Throughout his career, he has faced moments of uncertainty, such as the economic recession that affected the art market in 2007. However, his works continued to be in demand, which not only allowed him to stay afloat but also to grow in a challenging environment. This resilience has been key to his development as an artist and entrepreneur. Fabián is also distinguished by his desire to innovate in the art world. In his words, “art is an expression through extraordinary technique.” This philosophy has led him to create his own style, seeking to inspire others to find their voice within art. His dream is for new generations to recognize the value of technical skill in artistic creation. In his journey to continue exploring new frontiers, Fabián has set his sights on contemporary figures such as Elon Musk, whom he hopes to portray soon. “Musk is a modern genius who is changing the world. I hope to have the opportunity to capture his essence,” he says enthusiastically. Additionally, one of his greatest wishes is to meet Lionel Messi, not only because of the admiration he has for the soccer player but also due to the positive influence Messi has in the lives of his children. With a career that has surpassed the limits of what he once imagined, Fabián Pérez has become a reference for Argentine art abroad. His story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and commitment to the community. Through his art, Fabián not only portrays the celebrities he admires but also leaves an indelible mark on the world around him, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and never give up in the pursuit of their dreams.