In a shocking development, Brent Sikkema, the founder of the esteemed New York gallery Sikkema Jenkins & Co., has been found dead at the age of 75 in a Rio de Janeiro apartment. Brazilian publications reported that Sikkema had suffered stab wounds, possibly inflicted by scissors, a box cutter, or a screwdriver. An investigation into his death is currently underway.

According to a report from the local Fire Department, Sikkema's body was discovered with the injuries. The gallery confirmed his passing in an email announcement on Tuesday. However, when asked about the reports from Brazilian media, a representative declined to comment on the specific details surrounding Sikkema's death.

Sikkema Jenkins & Co. is widely respected in the art world, both in New York and beyond. The gallery represents esteemed artists such as Jeffrey Gibson, who will be representing the United States at the upcoming Venice Biennale, and Kara Walker. Walker's first New York solo show took place at Sikkema's gallery in 1995, marking the start of a successful relationship with 11 more one-person exhibitions to follow.

The gallery's roster also includes notable artists such as Anohni, Tony Feher, Louis Fratino, Sheila Hicks, Vik Muniz, Maria Nepomuceno, Jennifer Packer, and Luiz Zerbini. Additionally, established artists like Deana Lawson, Amy Sillman, Mark Bradford, Arlene Shechet, and Shahzia Sikander had earlier shows at Sikkema's gallery, which played a role in their careers.

Sikkema initially launched his gallery, then known as Wooster Gardens, in New York's SoHo district back in 1991. In 1996, Michael Jenkins joined the gallery as its director, eventually becoming a partner in 2003. Later, in 1999, Sikkema Jenkins & Co. relocated to the bustling Chelsea neighborhood, positioning itself near renowned galleries such as Gagosian, David Zwirner, Hauser & Wirth, and Pace.

Prior to his work with Sikkema Jenkins & Co., Sikkema had ventured into the gallery scene in Boston in 1976. He began his career in 1971 as the director of exhibitions at the Visual Studies Workshop in Rochester, New York.

The unexpected demise of Brent Sikkema leaves a void in the art world, and his contributions to the gallery and support of emerging and established artists will be remembered. As the investigation into his death continues, the art community mourns the loss of a remarkable visionary.