Co-Crea Chichi

Serena Israel: The Colorful Heart Behind Chichi®  

Article written by Jessica Gallant  

Serena Israel is the vibrant visionary behind the renowned Chichi® sculptures, a beloved symbol of  Curaçao's culture. Her journey, marked by resilience, creativity, and passion, has transformed  challenges into opportunities for empowerment and inspiration. Serena’s work with Chichi®  extends beyond art, it's a movement that uplifts women, artists, and the local population, making  Chichi® a powerful emblem of strength, unity, and pride. Today, we celebrate Serena’s  achievements and her lasting impact on Curaçao through the evolving story of Chichi®.  

From Germany to Curaçao  

Originally from Berlin, Serena honed her mold-making skills while working at ‘Staatliche Museen zu Berlin’ (Berlin State Museums) before embarking on a transformative seven-year sailing expedition across the Atlantic. This experience  exposed her to diverse cultures and perspectives, ultimately leading her to Curaçao, where she found not only a home but also a profound sense of purpose. As she embraced this new chapter  of her life, Serena faced personal and professional challenges. Nevertheless, her unwavering  vision and determination allowed her to overcome these obstacles, resulting in the birth of Chichi®,  a voluptuous sculpture that quickly gained popularity, becoming a trendsetter on the island and  filling a gap in the market for locally crafted souvenirs. Symbolizing warmth, love, and strength,  "Chichi," a term for an older sister in Curaçao, embodies the values Serena sought to represent  through her creativity.  

Empowering Community Through Art  

Serena’s influence transcends her art, reflecting her commitment to enriching the community. By  collaborating with local artists, she nurtures emerging talent and creates significant opportunities for craftsmen across the island. Each Chichi® sculpture is a testament to Curaçao’s collective creativity,  handcrafted by local artisans. Her inclusive approach, beautifully exemplified by the wheelchair  Chichi®, reflects her profound belief that art should be a source of connection for everyone. Over  time, Chichi® has evolved into a powerful emblem of Curaçao’s colorful culture, capturing Serena’s  vision of solidarity and empowerment. Despite any obstacles life may presents, Serena remains  dedicated to celebrating resilience and inclusivity, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.  

A Meaningful Vision for the Future  

Building on this foundation, Serena is now guiding Chichi® through an exciting transformation,  emphasising her commitment to deepening its role within the local culture. Her vision for the  future focuses on enhancing the bond between the people of Curaçao and Chichi®, making it an  even more powerful representation of pride and connection. Chichi® aspires to continue making a  positive impact, inspiring individuals to embrace their inner strength and share their light with  others. 

Serena’s leadership and creative vision has elevated Chichi® into a cultural touchstone that  embodies hope, resilience, and the spirit of Curaçao. This journey highlights the transformative  power of creativity and collective effort, demonstrating that art can serve not only as personal  expression but also as a catalyst for meaningful change.  

In essence, Chichi® is more than a sculpture; it’s a reflection of Serena’s colorful heart and her  dedication to inspiring future generations. As Chichi® continues to evolve, so does Serena's mission  to encourage and empower through art, ensuring that the legacy of Chichi® will shine brightly for  years to come. 

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www.chichi-curacao.com