Our Team

KEIKO LEVON
Director of Operations

Since earning her degree in Art History from Wheaton College, Keiko has worked as an art advisor for over 10 years. She is certified in Artifact Collection Care through the University of Chicago and has spent her time assisting private clients in their search for acquisitions and becoming adept at managing large-scale corporate art collections. She exudes elegance and the highest level of professionalism in everything she does.

MAURA CONNORS
Studio Operations Manager

Maura has a comprehensive understanding of both the business and art worlds, to which she brings her innate design savvy and top-notch work ethic. She received her Master’s in Arts Administration and Policy from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and her Bachelor’s in Art History from the University of Chicago. She has a decade of consulting, marketing, and event planning experience across a variety of industries, including architecture and artist management.

MONICA STOKES
Senior Consultant

Monica brings a rich background which includes curating exhibitions, managing collections, and developing brand strategies for arts-focused organizations and major corporations. With a Bachelor’s in Visual and Critical Studies from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Monica’s diverse skill set and strategic insight enable her to craft impactful visual narratives and innovative solutions across various industries. She brings thoughtful precision to her work with clients.

NICO GARDNER
Senior Consultant

Nico has spent nearly 20 years in the art world at some of the field’s most respected institutions — from Deitch Projects and the Menil Collection to Chicago mainstays Corbett vs Dempsey and Richard Gray Gallery, where he served as Director. He holds a Bachelor’s in Art History from Rice University and a Master’s from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His advising private and corporate clients on acquisitions, sales, and public sculpture has honed his keen eye and expertise.

CLAIRE WARNER + SAM VINZ
Credentialed Appraisers

Sam and Claire are credentialed in fine art appraisal in 20th Century and Contemporary Art and Design. Claire previously worked as a specialist in 20th Century and Contemporary Design with Wright Auction, Chicago, where she developed a keen eye for exceptional design and craftsmanship. After working with Phillips de Pury, Carpenters Workshop Gallery and Chase Art Companies, Sam developed a deep understanding of the fine art market and how to navigate its complexities.

NATHAN DAVIS
Project Assistant

Nathan brings a strong analytical foundation to his work at DeGroot Fine Art, having earned his Bachelor’s in Art History from the University of Chicago. Previous roles across galleries and museums such as Volume Gallery and the Smart Museum of Art inform his contributions to curatorial support, collections management, and content strategy at DeGroot Fine Art. He brings careful research and a collaborative spirit to every project he supports.

KATHERINE HARVATH
Credentialed Appraiser

Katherine is a dedicated artist and curator with over a decade of experience in the art world. Credentialed in fine art appraisal, she combines her expertise with a passion for fostering creativity and dialogue. Katherine earned her MFA from the University of Chicago and her BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Her calm and steadfast demeanor creates an inviting atmosphere and enhances every project, making her an invaluable asset to the team.