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A gallery that has used Art Guard sensors for several years contacted me regarding a trove of works on loan for a show. The value of these pieces exceeded anything they had exhibited before by tens of millions of dollars. Their question concerned whether it was advisable to mix methods of security protection and whether tethering paintings to walls was worthwhile.
“Of course, do whatever you need to do to feel secure,” was my reply.
As you may know, tethering a painting to a wall with wire, in and of itself, will not prevent a theft. Like several other rudimentary methods, it offers resistance; that resistance -- and the resulting delay in execution -- may be enough to save the paintings from being pilfered.
Some gallery professionals will react to that tactic by saying, “Why bother?”
As recently as 2010, many galleries put marbles behind the frames of paintings to signal an attempt to move them. Some would say, “Incredible.”
I say, “Why not?”
The thief on trial for the theft of five masterpieces from the Museum of Modern Art in Paris in 2010 characterized the job as dizzyingly easy. No guards, faulty security system, unlocked window grills. Had any of those been operational, it might have given him pause before executing his plan.
The point is that so many professionals and collectors in galleries, museums, homes and other places that showcase art probably agonize over spending money to secure art. Or they don’t even consider security. Then the unthinkable happens.
The message here is do something, rather than nothing, for your own peace of mind.
There’s always a reason and a way to protect art and assets, compatible with your current security measures. Let’s discuss your options and your budget. Contact us at 212-989-1594 and bill@artguard.net.
Best Regards,
Bill Anderson
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