The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
New ‘Loo-uvre’ art created after theft
Artists moved to work to replace paintings stolen from toilets at East Haven
Residents in East Haven have taken to the easel following a brazen theft which shocked the village.
“Lowlife” thieves plundered three paintings from the wall of the public toilets in the village, which has been transformed into an art gallery.
The toilets are run by local charity East Haven Together and have become affectionately known as the Loo-uvre.
Wendy Murray, from East Haven Together, said: “Artists amongst the heritage and garden group were shocked and upset when it was discovered that three paintings had disappeared from the gallery at the toilets.
“The theft sparked an outcry on social media along with expressions of support for the facility, which is managed by local residents.
“Following the loss, the ‘wee gallery’ artists described themselves as ‘resolute’ and said they were determined not to allow one individual undermine the facility and enjoyment of others.
“Consequently, they have been working on a number of paintings to replace the spaces left on the wall as a result of the thefts.”
In a surprise gesture, Birkhill artist Wendy Edwards donated a watercolour painting of East Haven, which was presented yesterday.
Wendy said she and partner Alan visit East Haven regularly and wanted to support local artists at this difficult time. The couple have also suggested the painting could be put on cards which could be subsequently sold to raise money for East Haven Together.
John Keen, who is closely involved in helping manage the gallery, said residents have been overwhelmed with messages of support. He said they were also delighted to receive Wendy’s gift.
The community in East Haven took ownership of the 1970s toilets in 2015 after they were declared surplus to requirements by Angus Council.
The three paintings stolen on August 21 were of tulips in a gold frame, Loch Stack in a silver frame and thistles on canvas.