Brent Sikkema Brutally Murdered in His Rio de Janeiro Home

Brent Sikkema, a prominent American art dealer and co-owner of a New York City gallery, has been discovered dead in Rio de Janeiro in what Brazilian authorities are treating as a homicide, according to FOX News.

The 75-year-old was found at his residence in the upscale Jardim Botânico neighborhood on Monday night, prompting an investigation by Rio de Janeiro's Capital Homicide Police.

The famous art dealer 's lifeless body was found by his friend and lawyer at his two-story home at 11:05 PM. Preliminary reports suggest that the incident is being investigated as a robbery.

"Agents will listen to witnesses, are looking for more information, and will carry out other measures to clarify the case," police stated.

Authorities believe that Sikkema might have been attacked with scissors, a box cutter, or a screwdriver, but no arrests have been made as the investigation unfolds.

The US Consulate in Rio has confirmed the death of the U.S. citizen.

Simone Nunes, Sikkema's lawyer, discovered the tragedy when she went to check on his property after being unable to reach him before a scheduled work meeting.

On his Instagram page, purportedly operated by Sikkema, snapshots of his global travels were shared, including a notable image with Michelle Obama.

Legacy of Sikkema Jenkins & Co.

Brent Sikkema played a pivotal role as the co-owner of Sikkema Jenkins & Co., originally founded as Wooster Gardens in Soho in 1991, per the Daily Mail.

The contemporary art gallery relocated to Chelsea in 1999 and became a prominent fixture in the art scene.

The famous art dealer's gallery showcased the works of esteemed artists like Walker, Anohia, Tony Feher, Sheila Hicks, Jennifer Packer, Deana Lawson, Mark Bradford, Amy Sillman, Shahzia Sikander, and Arlene Shechet.

In a statement, Sikkema Jenkins & Co. expressed deep sorrow over the passing of their beloved founder, emphasizing their commitment to carrbrenty on his legacy.

"It is with great sadness that the gallery announces the passing of our beloved founder, Brent Sikkema,' Sikkema Jenkins & Co. said in a statement Tuesday. 'The gallery grieves this tremendous loss and will continue on in his spirit."

Brent Sikkema Life and Advocacy

Born in 1948 in Morrison, Illinois, Sikkema's journey in the art world started after graduating from the San Francisco Art Institute, Artforum noted.

Over the years, the famous art dealer contributed significantly to the art community, directing exhibitions and leading galleries in various cities.

He established Wooster Gardens in New York and later transformed it into Sikkema Jenkins & Co., solidifying his imprint on the Chelsea arts district.

Sikkema, known for his affinity for places like Cuba and Brazil, where societal struggles are prevalent, had made Rio de Janeiro his occasional residence.

Described as a generous and socially conscious individual, Sikkema's impact extended beyond the art world.

Colleagues and friends, including renowned artists Vik Muniz and Luiz Zerbini, expressed their grief over the loss of a trailblazer who championed diversity and inclusivity in the art community.

Brent Sikkema is survived by his husband and their 12-year-old son.

As the investigation continues, the art world mourns the loss of a visionary and advocate for social issues.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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