«Our values are the foundation of our culture, shaping everything we do. They are at the heart of our identity as a global consulting firm»
— Adama KA, CEO
About ARTENIM
ARTENIM is a global consulting firm with headquarters in Chicago and Dakar, dedicated to guiding clients through the dynamic landscape of the art world.
From assisting in the inception of art collections, to nurturing collaborations with artists from Africa and its diaspora, we offer comprehensive support tailored to our clients' needs. Our expertise extends to developing art programs that adhere to international standards, to implementing impactful cultural policies.
Central to our approach is a culture of strong collaboration and inclusivity, fostered within a community of diverse individuals united by a shared commitment to enriching the arts and culture sector.
Our goal is to elevate African contemporary art and foster meaningful connections between Africa and the global community, bridging cultures and inspiring dialogue through the transformative power of art.
Our Values
We believe in maintaining the highest standards of ethics and business conduct.
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Artistic Excellence
We uphold the highest standards of artistic excellence. Our dedication to quality ensures that every work of art we acquire or commission reflects a commitment to artistic integrity and innovation.
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Authenticity
We value authenticity and transparency, cultivating genuine relationships built on openness, honesty, and sincerity.
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Client First
We prioritize the needs and interests of our clients, striving to exceed their expectations and deliver exceptional value in every interaction.
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Impact
We view art as a catalyst for positive change, and our initiatives extend beyond traditional art consultation, to empower and uplift artists from Africa and its diaspora.
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Respect for the Artists
We value creativity, talent, and contributions of artists, fostering a supportive and equitable environment for their work to thrive.
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Community
We believe in giving back to the communities where we operate.
Through partnerships and philanthropy, we aim to make a positive impact and support the art sector.
Meet our Founder
Adama Ka is a former finance professional and arts administrator. Before moving to Chicago, she spent a decade in Luxembourg, working as a capital markets professional at Royal Bank of Canada and RBS International. Her expertise lies in providing credit facilities to Private Equity Funds.
She began her career at AXA Investment Managers in Paris and later transitioned to Deloitte Consulting, where she provided advisory services to top European asset managers.
Driven by her passion for the arts, especially restructuring the African art sector, Adama is committed to building bridges between Africa and the rest of the world, through art.
She holds a master’s degree in International Finance from Rennes School of Business in France, and a master’s degree in Arts Administration and Policy from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Unveiling the Significance of ARTENIM
ARTENIM is the fusion of “Art” and the Latin word “enim”, meaning “indeed”. It highlights our firm acknowledgement of the significance and subtle impact of art on our lives and society.
The Inspiration Behind Starting a Consulting Firm
My journey began more than 15 years ago as a consultant at Deloitte, where I enjoyed the diversity of assignments for Asset Managers based in Paris.
However, my long-standing passion for art and dedication to support artists have been two constants in my life.
Interestingly, whether in the corporate world or the art realm, my ethos remains constant: I'm driven by a desire to assist others. This convergence of passion and purpose led me to start a consulting firm. My ambition is clear: contribute to fostering a robust art sector in Africa while supporting contemporary artists from the continent and its diaspora.
I believe in providing them with increased visibility, not only in cultural institutions or private collections, but also within corporate circles, an avenue often overlooked for its innovative potential in supporting artists. At the heart of it all lies my dedication to making a positive impact, fostering creativity and facilitating connections between artists and collectors.
Through this firm, I aim to weave together my expertise, passion, and commitment to create a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem.
Cultivating Change
As someone who was born and raised in Senegal, I have a connection to the art and culture of Africa in general. Senegal's vibrant artistic scene and the richness of its cultural heritage have been fundamental influences on my worldview and aspirations. I've seen the immense talent that exists within Africa and its diaspora, yet I've also witnessed the challenges and barriers that many artists face in gaining visibility and opportunities beyond their local communities.
Beyond supporting the work of artists and providing opportunities for growth, I'm also passionate about building a sustainable ecosystem that fosters their success. This involves advocating for robust policies that promote the arts, as well as enhancing museum management practices to ensure preservation and foster connections with the rest of the world.
Exploring the Favorite Part of the Job
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is undoubtedly visiting artists' studios.
These interactions provide a unique opportunity to delve into the creative process, gaining insights into the artist's inspiration, techniques, and vision.
Art has long been hailed as a catalyst for change, and this sentiment truly resonates when I spend time with artists. Through our discussions, I not only gain a deeper understanding of their practice, but also witness the transformative power of art.
Thanks to these moments of connection and exploration, I'm reminded of the profound impact art can have on individuals and society as a whole.
Ultimately, the privilege of experiencing the creative process up close and collaborating with artists to bring their visions to life is truly one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. It's a constant source of inspiration and motivation.