A woman sitting on a large blue cushioned chair in front of a colorful abstract painting on a beige wall.

CHIMERE CiSSÉ
ENTREPRENEUR & ART COLLECTOR

Chimere Cissé is an entrepreneur, collector, and advisor working at the intersection of art, communications and philanthropy. She is co‑founder of STELLA Alliance, launched in 2024 with Greta Scarpa - an international, by-invitation community dedicated to closing the gender gap in art collecting and amplifying women’s cultural influence. Through research, curated gatherings, and peer networks, STELLA empowers women collectors to shape narratives and legacy. Developed with ArtTactic, the Alliance’s first major research project, launching in 2026, will provide a landmark view of women collectors globally.

Before STELLA, Chimere founded ArtKōrero in 2020 - a cultural advisory and funding platform that acts as a bridge between creators, institutions, and resources, delivering strategic programming, public-facing initiatives, and innovative collaborations. Recent programming highlights include Dubai Design Week, where Chimere, in collaboration with Therme Art, co-presented award-winning designer Annabelle Schneider (German Design Prize 2026) and her immersive project INTERLUDE: in between is now.

A dedicated philanthropist, Chimere supports initiatives that link culture with social change. She has contributed to programmes with Dubai Cares, the British Council, Fashion Fights Cancer, and holds a longstanding leadership role with Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation, using art as a vehicle for meaningful social impact.

Chimere has spoken as a guest lecturer at the University of East London and previously served as an advisor to the United Nations EFI, championing initiatives that integrated culture, trade, and sustainable development.

Earlier in her career, Chimere held senior positions at Burberry and Hearst UK (across Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE), where she gained deep expertise in brand strategy, editorial programming, and cultural storytelling.

Chimere has been featured internationally in publications from Vogue and Cultured to Canvas, highlighting her work as a cultural advisor and collector.