Federico Pignatelli: Man of Many Talents
Born into Italian nobility, Federico Pignatelli started out his life in Rome and embarked on a career as a real estate developer. As his interest in international business grew, he moved to Switzerland and then to London before his final move to the United States. His career as an investment banker preceded the establishment of his own investment banking firm. Some of his other ventures include:
• BIOLASE, Inc. a publicly listed company – Nearly 20 years ago, Federico met the inventors of unique dental and medical laser technology. The concept was to perform non-invasive biological dental procedures that would allow the patient to heal more quickly. Since he could envision the possibilities, he invested the first one million dollars of venture capital. Over the years, he has sat in the CEO chair more than once. Within 14 years the company value rose from $3 million to $500 million in 2004.
• Pier 59 Studios – Early in the 1990s, Mr. Pignatelli pursued his dream to establish the largest full-service photography studio in the world. His quest took him down to the piers in Manhattan, New York where he found an abandoned cruise ship terminal. He could see the potential in the vast open spaces in Chelsea Piers that could be constructed into unobstructed huge studios, the biggest in New York city. With this central location for talent and creative professional, a complete production can be developed, filmed and edited onsite.
• Art & Fashion Group – One support and services company was created to support the companies that are members of the Pier 59 Studios family. Art & Fashion Group fills requests made by the photo production professionals while they are onsite in New York or Los Angeles. Headquarters for A&FG is located at the Manhattan studio complex, which allows easy access to rented equipment, client services, the talent agency and a wide variety of online services.
• AFG Management – Founded in 2002 by Federico Pignatelli , AFG Management is a full range photographic agency representing an incredibly talented roster of image makers from fine art, fashion, beauty, high concept advertising, moving image and online artists.
• The Industry Group USA – Professional representation is an essential service for models, actors and photographers. Their careers are directly affected by the quality of the agents that place their portfolios in front of directors and photographers. Respected professionals work with people all over the globe to connect an elite tier of artists with the best opportunities.
• Amazon Films Media Company – After completing his role as executive producer of the motion picture titled, “Kill Me Later,” Federico established a production company to hold the rights. He will participate in more avant-garde films that will be produced through this media company.
Every venture provides an outlet for an incredibly creative individual who enjoys taking great people along for the ride.
Author:
Federico Pignatelli , the CEO of California-based dental laser company Biolase, is keeping his annual salary of just $1, as he seeks to rebuild the fortunes of the company after a turbulent year.