In just one moment, a year's worth of work was lost for local artist F.X. Rosica.. On Friday, May 23, thieves smashed out a window on his car in broad daylight and stole nearly all the work he was scheduled to display next month at the Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center.
IFCC Creative Director Adrienne Flagg says the theft was devastating to the artist and the center. Unlike some art installations, Rosica was debuting a full year's worth of prints and paintings about the passage of time as we move around on bus, train and bicycles. In addition to the artwork – bright copper plate etchings – specialized tools, prints and sketchbooks were also stolen.
A new and emerging artist, Rosica was chosen last year by the IFCC to spend one year on the themed installation. Flagg said they are currently working through different options to best support the artist. She said they are considering a range of options, from cancelling or rescheduling the show, to displaying past works – whatever option best supports the artist is the action IFCC will take, said Flagg.
In response to the break-in, Rosica spent his Memorial Day weekend checking dumpsters Downtown, visiting the waste transfer station and posting flyers about the etchings and tools. The break-in occurred during daylight hours on
Southwest 12th Avenueand
Taylor Street.
If you have any information about the stolen items, contact the IFCC at 503-823-2070.
