Is Art Being Stolen to Order?

The Rise in Art Theft

Art theft has seen a significant uptick in recent years, with thieves targeting both high-profile and lesser-known works. One notable case involved Nima Mazhari, who was convicted on June 5th for stealing paintings by the late Ghitta Caiserman-Roth, valued at $100,000. In another incident, a group of thieves in hoodies made off with prints by the anonymous graffiti artist Banksy in Brighton.

High-Profile Cases

• Nima Mazhari and Ghitta Caiserman-Roth: Mazhari, the boyfriend of Olympian Myriam Bédard, was convicted of stealing Caiserman-Roth's paintings. The stolen works were valued at $100,000.
• Banksy Thefts: Banksy's works have become prime targets due to their public nature and high value. In one instance, a piece was cut from a wall in Paddington and later auctioned on eBay for £20,000. Another theft involved murals in Whitechapel, which were damaged as thieves attempted to chisel them from the walls.

The Milwaukee Delacroix

In Milwaukee, a Delacroix drawing that had been stolen two years prior was returned by a man who claimed to have found it in the trash. This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of art theft and recovery.

The Market for Stolen Art

The increasing popularity and value of certain artworks have made them attractive targets for thieves. Banksy's works, in particular, have seen a surge in visibility and demand. Stuart Hobday, Director of a canceled Banksy exhibition in Norwich, stated, "It's a real shame that this exhibition is not going ahead, but the risk of the art being stolen was fairly high, and we understand the concern raised by the owner of the works."

The Role of Public Art

Banksy's graffiti, often displayed in public spaces, is easier to steal than traditional artworks. This accessibility has led to a rise in thefts and subsequent sales on platforms like eBay. The public nature of these works also complicates security measures, as seen in the Paddington and Whitechapel incidents.

The Impact on Artists and Exhibitions

The rise in art theft has broader implications for artists and exhibitions. Mary Jane Ansell, a figurative painter based near the Artrepublic gallery in Brighton, commented on the situation: "Banksy is a hugely popular artist locally, and obviously, his work is becoming ever more attractive to investors and the public alike. I wouldn't be surprised if they were stolen to order."

Security and Insurance Concerns

The cancellation of the Banksy show in Norwich raises questions about public access to art. Increased security measures and higher insurance premiums could deter future exhibitions, impacting both artists and viewers. The necessary security barriers may also diminish the viewing experience, creating further challenges for the art community.

The Mainstream Appeal of Art

Despite the negative aspects, the rise in art theft underscores the growing mainstream appeal of art. The fashionable cachet of Banksy's work, bolstered by purchases from celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and Jude Law, highlights the increasing value and visibility of contemporary art.

Encouraging Young Artists

Mary Jane Ansell suggests that the attention garnered by these thefts could be encouraging for young artists. The heightened interest in art, driven by high-profile cases and celebrity endorsements, may inspire emerging artists to pursue their craft.

Conclusion

Art theft is a complex issue with far-reaching implications. While it poses significant challenges for artists, galleries, and collectors, it also highlights the growing mainstream appeal of art. As the art world navigates these challenges, the focus will likely shift towards enhancing security measures and addressing the market for stolen works.

Interesting Stats

• According to the FBI, art theft is a $6 billion criminal enterprise annually (FBI.gov).
• Interpol's database lists over 50,000 stolen art pieces, with only a fraction ever recovered (Interpol.int).
• A study by the Association for Research into Crimes against Art (ARCA) found that only 10% of stolen art is ever recovered (artcrimeresearch.org).

By understanding the motivations behind art theft and its broader implications, the art community can better protect its valuable works and continue to inspire future generations.

Sources:

• FBI Art Theft Program
• Interpol Stolen Works of Art Database
• Association for Research into Crimes against Art (ARCA)