Greta Scarpa and Chimere Cissé talks about the female centric art collective named “STELLA Alliance”

Greta Scarpa and Chimere Cissé are the founders of the collective.

What is the name of the initiative?
CHIMERE: STELLA! It means star in Italian. Stars have long been regarded as a symbol of guidance, inspiration and spirituality. For us, they are the spark that fuels creativity. In the vast universe of creative expression, it’s not just a word; it’s the shared light that brings clarity and a sense of purpose.
GRETA: It was very spontaneous, we didn’t brainstorm for days or weeks to find our name. Sometimes you just sense that the energy is right. 

Why was it established? How does the initiative aim to support and empower women in the art collecting world?
GRETA: STELLA is our reaction to the lack of representation of women collectors in the industry. It was founded with the acute awareness of historical gender disparities within the art world, where male artists and collectors have traditionally dominated. However, the current moment is ripe and more and more women want and can enter the art collecting sphere.
CHIMERE: A well thought-through art collection can build both economic significance, serving as an investment, and also as a tangible embodiment of cultural worth. It’s therefore crucial that women make their mark as collectors and owners of this unique asset. Both from the aspect of accruing capital, and having an impact on the artistic landscape.
GRETA: Our aim at STELLA is to empower women in the collecting arena, transforming them into influential art collectors, leaders and patrons. We will provide a platform where women can connect, access professional guidance, and ultimately generate economic value for themselves and their families. 

Nika Neelova,Knots.VII-VII. 2022, reassembled reclaimed solid mahogany handrails. Courtesy of NIKA Project Space

What are the stats when it comes to female collectors in the region?
GRETA: There are prominent women collectors that are leading the way in the UAE, such as Maisa Al Qassimi and Alejandra Castro Rioseco for example. We need to be able to read the socio-economic situation in a wider way in a territory that is that young and rapidly rising.
CHIMERE: Exactly. Data shows that the number of women entrepreneurs across the country has been growing: in 2019 there were 23,000 Emirati women running businesses worth Dh50 billion compared with 2010 when 11,000 owned businesses were worth Dh12 billion! The cultural sector in the UAE is mostly in female hands and blossoming. That’s an interesting triangulation and allows so many more women to be involved in the art and collecting field.

What does the female perspective offer the art world?
GRETA: It’s crucial to clarify that STELLA isn’t interested in carrying on a narrative that separates women and men’s vision, quite the contrary, the goal is to shape cultural narratives and legacies that create more equality in the art ecosystem, a harmony. By building collections that reflect their interests, values, and experiences, women can contribute to the preservation and spreading of diverse cultural perspectives, creating a counterbalance within a market that needs that. Even if it’s always dangerous to generalize, women tend to function more as a collective creative force. We are looking forward to exploring this idea and seeing where we can reach. 

Roger Coll, DO YOU DANCE 3 (Part 1/2), stoneware, table top, modelled, slipcast
and sanded. Courtesy of ArtKōrero

What specific resources or support does the initiative provide to women art collectors?
GRETA: Members can support each other in their collecting endeavors. They will have access to an exclusive art calendar of gallery openings, global art fairs and studio visits, as well as engaging in social events such as dinners, parties, and art-related trips.
CHIMERE: STELLA further facilitates direct connections with artists, gallerists, curators and other art world professionals, expanding members’ purchasing ability and confidence investing in pieces of significance.
GRETA: In addition to the benefits mentioned above, it is worth to stress that STELLA offers a tailored art advisory service that fits each member’s personal taste, budget, and investment goals. We have witnessed many individuals spending an important amount of money without a clear purpose, often on artists whose presence in the art market is questionable and whose works are overpriced. We want to avoid that. The art world can be highly competitive and exclusive, but there are numerous opportunities available,
especially for those who prioritize knowledge. We want our collectors to make informed decisions and collect wisely. Being part of STELLA means being part of an aggregator with the scope to empower women’s role in the art world both intellectually and financially. 

Emilia Kina, Untitled, 2022, oil on canvas, molded loom. Courtesy of eastcontemporary Gallery

Are there any educational programs or events organized by the initiative to enhance women’s knowledge and skills in art collecting?
CHIMERE: Absolutely, we’ve designed an enriching talks and panels program featuring prominent figures to enhance members’ understanding of the art world. Additionally, we facilitate private viewings, connecting Dubai, Milan and London, providing members with a confidential setting to acquire selected artworks and engage in meaningful conversations about art. At STELLA, we believe in expanding knowledge through these initiatives, building a dynamic community beyond traditional boundaries; from sensory dinners with culinary artists to international art fair excursions and artist studio visits.

Are there any partnerships or collaborations with other organizations or institutions to further the goals of the women art collectors initiative?
CHIMERE: Yes! STELLA has already established partnerships and collaborations with differing organizations and institutions between Dubai and Milan. By working together, we amplify the impact of our initiative, creating a united front against gender disparities in the art world. Through these alliances, we aim to challenge existing norms and promote an inclusive art ecosystem. Stay tuned for more announcements on this.

Chimere Cissé and Greta Scarpa. Photographed by Ben Cope at Gallery Collectional

How can women interested in art collecting get involved with or benefit from the resources offered by the initiative?
GRETA: Women interested in joining STELLA can connect with us through our social media channels to stay updated on our upcoming official launch.