Art student’s work stolen outside Kirkcaldy Galleries show

An art student lost his year’s work when thieves struck on the eve of an exhibition launch.

James Dorward’s painting was one of several erected outside the Kirkcaldy Galleries as the venue prepared to show work by Diane Arbus as part of a national tour.

Fife College students had collaborated with the galleries for the Artist Rooms exhibition and a double-sided piece by James, 32, of Kinghorn, was selected for display at the entrance.

However, the four feet-square artwork was taken late on Thursday or the early hours of Friday before guests arrived for the opening.

Lecturer Hazel Terry said: “We did not think they would be stolen as they are very large and heavy and cable-tied to railings in an area with CCTV.

“James is very philosophical about it and has taken it as a compliment but it is a great shame that he has lost a lot of work that took a great deal of time and effort.”

Police Scotland confirmed an incident had been reported and was under investigation.