[MSN] Columbus. Sculptures Stolen From Art Gallery -- Again. Owner To Install Additional Security

[Museum Security Network Mailinglist]

Sculptures Stolen From Art Gallery -- Again
Owner To Install Additional Security

POSTED: 4:23 pm EST January 12, 2006
UPDATED: 4:38 pm EST January 12, 2006

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A Columbus art gallery has been targeted by thieves twice in a week, 
losing more than $20,000 and 1,200 pounds worth of sculptures.

The robberies occurred at A Muse Gallery on West Third Avenue first on Sunday, then on 
Wednesday, NBC 4's Erin Tate reported.

On Sunday, a 400-pound sculpture was stolen from the front door. Then, Wednesday night, 
two more sculptures were taken from the gallery's front yard.

"It changes the face of the gallery and how I do business," said Caren Petersen, gallery 
owner. "I can't draw customers in with the sculptures anymore."

SLIDESHOW: Images From Gallery

"Sway," a steel and iron sculpture worth $7,500 was stolen Sunday. Then, two more pieces, 
"Axis" and "Dancer," were stolen.

"This is someone either targeting my gallery or (they) thought it was fun or funny and is on a 
roll now," Petersen said.

Since she's already lost more than $22,000 or art, Petersen said two remaining Russell 
Whiting sculptures are being moved inside the gallery.

Petersen estimates each stolen sculpture weighs 300 to 400 pounds. She said someone 
attempted to take another piece, but didn't make it far.

"This one is even heavier," she said.

Empty bases, clods of dirt and a muddy path up the driveway are the only traces left by the 
thieves. Petersen said what the thieves stole is irreplaceable.

"This kind of loss is devastating," she said. "This is truly just sad -- just a sad event."

After seven years at the location, the gallery is installing additional security following the rash 
of thefts.

Police said the sculptures wouldn't be worth much in scrap metal.

A $500 reward for each sculpture is being offered.

Watch NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.

photos:
http://www.nbc4i.com/news/6032629/detail.html