British Museum Theft: Artist Takes Another Object
Brazilian artist Ilê Sartuzi made headlines when he stole a historical coin from the British Museum in London and replaced it with a replica. The artist documented the heist in a video as part of his MFA thesis exhibition at Goldsmiths, University of London, calling it “Sleight of Hand”.
The original 1645 silver coin, not cataloged in the museum’s database, was from Newark, England and part of the handling collection for visitors. While Sartuzi claims his actions did not violate museum policies, the museum expressed disappointment and hinted at involving the police.
The incident comes after a previous scandal at the museum, although the museum did not confirm additional security measures. Sartuzi’s work raises questions about the museum’s colonial past and the fetishism of money. He plans to exhibit the project at the Museum of Contemporary Art in São Paulo.
Source
Leonie Schultz completed her studies in Digital Media and Design at the Berlin University of the Arts. She focuses on digital installations and interactive art, often incorporating elements of sound and light to create immersive experiences. Leonie has been involved in several digital art festivals and is known for her innovative approach to storytelling through technology.