In Memoriam: Derk Sauer
31 July 2025
We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our beloved chairman, Derk Sauer
His leadership and inspiration have been invaluable to Human Activities. In his role as chairman, he was deeply involved, in good times and bad, both practically and morally. With Derk, we were able to achieve things that would not have been possible otherwise. He was a smart, strong, and loyal friend to us all.
We are grateful that he dedicated himself to us and our mission — to redress inequality through art. His enthusiasm, decisiveness, passion, and loyalty will continue to inspire us on our journey.
Derk will remain in our hearts forever.
We wish his loved ones strength as they cope with this profound loss.
On behalf of the board and team of Human Activities,
Janke Brands and Renzo Martens
Photo credits: Derk Sauer gives a speech at breakfast for Human Activities and CATPC at Harry’s Bar, Venice, 2024.