LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Louisville artist is in distress after a group of thieves were caught on surveillance video stealing two paintings from the Mellwood Art Center early Sunday morning.
Jason Lois said his stolen pieces are worth around $6,000 combined.
On Wednesday, Lois was in his studio working on another piece after a rough start to the week of his first special solo exhibit at the art center.
"In some of my toughest times the canvas is therapeutic," he said.
Lois' solo exhibit, which is on Friday, will now be two pieces short as his stolen work has yet to be returned.
"This has never happened to me," Lois said. "I've had pieces throughout the city and other cities and I've never just had somebody walk off with pieces before. Much less at this monetary value."
A spokesperson for the Mellwood Art Center told WHAS11 it is doing everything it can to assist Lois and Louisville Metro Police Department in recovering the stolen artwork.
"Our 'Art On Loan' program is a way for artists to get their artwork in the public eye. We have had very few problems, and certainly nothing of this magnitude," the spokesperson said. "Our experience with the public is that they respect art and enjoy the opportunity to view it, and we want to continue to provide that opportunity."
Even though Lois is at a loss, he looks at the two blank walls that once held his work with a stroke of color.
"They walked through studios and all of these areas," Lois said. "I can't tell you how many pieces, probably 50, (and) they picked two of my pieces. Maybe it's like they really liked my art."
There is nothing subtle about Lois' unique style which features hints of inspiration from the Derby City. He hopes his art sparks emotions in viewers.
"So hopefully they feel a certain way about the art," he said, but still wants the thieves to do the right thing. "I would like the art back, I mean it is $6,000 that made its way out."
His artwork is now carefully being watched at the Mellwood Art Center Gallery. LMPD's Fifth Division said it's still investigating the theft and actively pursuing leads.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact police at 502-574-5673. Reports can also be made anonymously online.
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