The South African art world has been left reeling after a daring theft saw seven sculptures stolen from the Fomo Fine Art sculpture garden in Pringle Bay in the Western Cape earlier this month.
The audacious heist, which occurred under the cover of darkness, involved six works by renowned international sculptor Anton Smit and one piece by acclaimed mixed media artist Janko de Beer.
Reportedly, the perpetrators disabled the garden’s front CCTV camera before fleeing with the valuable artworks.
Emotional and Financial Blow
Janko de Beer, deeply affected by the theft, described the incident as “a heavy blow to the creative community.”
“The loss amounts to just over R1 million, but the emotional and cultural loss is far greater,” said De Beer.
“Theft of this nature is a blow not only to us but to the South African art community at large.”
De Beer is urging the public, collectors, and gallery owners to be on the lookout for the stolen works and to report any suspicious activity.
Police Investigation Underway
Local launched a full investigation and nearly three weeks later are still working to identify the perpetrators behind the well-orchestrated operation.
No arrests had been made at the time of publishing.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with information regarding the theft or the whereabouts of the stolen sculptures, is urged to contact their nearest police station or reach out anonymously via Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Have you ever visited the Fomo Fine Art sculpture garden in Pringle Bay?
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