Unconventional is the best way to describe art dealer Island Weiss. From his roots as an artist, to his singular New York City gallery space, there is nothing traditional or formulaic in his approach.

Weiss’ foray into the world of art was at age 10 when he began formal charcoal drawing lessons, which eventually led him to the Corcoran School of Art in his hometown, Washington, D.C. Weiss went on to attend the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where at age 22 he founded his very first gallery showcasing student work.

In 1980, he partnered with business magnate Tony Goldman and launched Greene Space Gallery in New York City. A pioneer in the burgeoning Soho art scene, the gallery was among the first to showcase visual and performing artists under one roof. Weiss eventually returned to D.C. to expand the premier contemporary division of Hollis Taggart Galleries. In 1995, Weiss opened an eponymous gallery in New York City. His inaugural exhibition featured an extraordinary collection of paintings by Martin Johnson Heade, establishing Island Weiss Gallery as a trusted dealer of 19th-and 20th-century American paintings. Today, he specializes in contemporary representational art while continuing to represent secondary market works, offering bespoke service in the most intimate of settings: a luxury penthouse.

Weiss prides himself on being an artist as well as an art dealer. He cultivates relationships with both his artists and his clients, having worked with most for more than 30 years. His efforts extend beyond the gallery and to the community. Weiss’ penchant for doing things differently is best witnessed at his events, where his main passions—art, music and philanthropy—come together. He helped produce The National Art Show; he co-produced events for The Garland Appeal USA; and he served as Chairman of the Advisory Committee and Board of Directors for the Florence Academy of Art. Weiss supports worthy causes and serves as a Global Advisor to the International University Center, Haiti.  In addition he has hosted charity events for the Weizmann Institute of Science, the Middleburg Human Foundation and Interlochen Arts Academy. Currently, he is focused on the New York Academy of Art where he is a Board of Trustees member. Seeking to broaden the reach of student artwork, he has organized themed exhibitions and collaborated with national art fairs on behalf of the school.

Acting as both an artist agent and an art dealer, Weiss is also a valued consultant having advised major institutions on both acquisitions and exhibitions. His keen eye is respected throughout the art community and his unparalleled brand of custom, one-on-one service is a hallmark of his gallery.

Return to Gallery Information