10/07/2026
The Influentials 2026: Bob Jimenez, "The Artists' Advocate"
Bob Jimenez spent 35 years in marketing and public relations, most recently as senior vice president of corporate affairs at Cox Enterprises in Atlanta. Two years ago, the Orlando native retired and came home to open Solana Fine Art in Winter Park, a city he says aligns "beautifully" with the gallery's ethos.
Art has long been his passion. Jimenez trained as a classical pianist before studying business, and he and his wife, Julia, collected art and befriended artists for years. As retirement approached, he prepared for a second career by attending major art shows and completing a gallery-management program at Sotheby's Institute of Art.
Solana opened representing 12 artists and now represents 34, with expansion plans underway. The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce named it New Business of the Year in 2025, and this year Jimenez chairs the Winter Park Autumn Art Festival Committee.
Of his hopes for the gallery, he says he'd feel fortunate to have played a small role in inspiring curiosity, supporting local artists and enriching the city's cultural fabric.
Now in its 11th year, The Influentials recognizes Winter Park residents who make a difference. Learn more about Bob Jimenez and the rest of the Class of 2026: https://winterparkmag.com/2026/09/30/the-influentials-2026/
