Police Search For Stolen Artwork

Monday, April 9th 2007, 1:22 pm

By: News On 6

There is a lead in the investigation into stolen artwork in Tulsa. A thief made away with a statue created by a renowned Native American artist. It was taken from a Tulsa gallery. When a thief took the $11,000 statue from Joseph Gierek Fine Art in January, it was the first time in 25 years that Gierek had anything stolen. News On 6 anchor Craig Day reports investigators now have a lead in the case.

"Certainly hopeful that something comes of it and we get it back," said Gierek.

After our first report on the theft, a tipster contacted Gierek saying she had seen the stolen bronze on Craig's List, an online classifieds site.

"She says she couldn't remember anything at all about who the artist was or what they were asking for it, but she says there is no question that when she saw the image on the report, that was definitely the bronze she had seen," said Gierek.

The bronze was sculpted by world-renowned Native American artist Allan Houser. Houser was originally from Oklahoma and is recognized as one of the most notable artists of the 20th century. Tulsa detectives and the insurance company investigator are following up on the lead.

"The information has been forwarded and just keeping our fingers crossed that we can get the bronze back," said Gierek.

In the meantime, Gierek has added high-tech security cameras to keep anything like the theft from happening again. The stolen bronze has also been reported to an international registry for stolen artwork. A reward is being offered for the return of the stolen statue.

For more information about Allan Houser, visit his website by clicking here.

Related story:

2/6/2007 - Search For Stolen Sculpture