[CPProt.net] UK: Work of art stolen

[Museum Security Network / Cultural Property Protection Net (Ton Cremers)]

Work of art stolen
May 12, 2005 16:52

By Rollo Dennison

THEATRE Royal, Norwich was struck by a thief who pinched a work of art on
display in broad daylight.

The incident took place in the first floor gallery of the Theatre Street
premises just before 4pm on Thursday, May 5.

The police are appealing for information regarding the swiped artwork from
the theatre. The offender or offenders is believed to have entered the
theatre by the main entrance then proceeded to the exhibition area where the
works of art were being displayed.

The stolen picture - a stretched canvas print from the 'Blue Collection'
signed by the artist Rosemary Parr in silver writing in the bottom left hand
corner, consisted of a white background with four interlocking circular
shapes in pink, blue and green. The 24 inch by 24 inch piece also was marked
with a distinctive sticker on the back, mentioning the title 'Celtic Knots'.

Mrs Parr said: "It's a very distinctive work of art. Out of the 10 different
artists work on display, one of the four of mine was the one stolen.

"It was so unexpected and distressing, I feel like the piece has been
devalued by being stolen. The whole ordeal is so upsetting, and actually
it's quite an insult."

She added: "Most of my work is displayed in London, this is the first time I
have displayed my digital art in Norwich. It has made me very wary on future
exhibitions and I would only consider displaying my work if a curator is on
hand.

"The print is worth around £100, but if it was stolen to order then it must
be worth more. The theatre has been keeping me up to date with developments
and they are supposed to have a good shot of one of the thieves."

Pc Pete Newman at Bethel Street Police Station, Norwich should be contacted
with any information about the theft on 01953 424242 or anonymously
Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.