Stolen Arts Center Sculpture Could be With Metal Scrappers by Now

A 200-pound sculpture valued at $12,500 was reported stolen from outside the Abernathy Arts Center on Feb. 26. The bronze boy sculpture’s shoe was left behind and part of the plate foundation.

Artists Don Haugen and Teena Stern created the work. It depicts a child walking to art class, carrying his art materials and was inspired by Haugen’s grandson, a statement said.

Bronze scultpure thefts have become common at art galleries across the country. Authorities say thieves try to sell them to metal recyclers.

Last month, two bronze sculptures valued at $350,000 were stolen from inside a gallery in Portsmouth, Va. And gallery owners in Salt Lake City, Utah have seen a string of at least 11 sculpture thefts over the past several months.

In September, a from Big Creek Greenway in Forsyth County and valued at $18,500, was recovered, thanks to a tipster.