#291 4.75″ x 6.75″ Gouache on Illustration Board, October 18th, 2007
It is with great sadness that I have recently learned that an individual broke into my exhibit at the Missoula Art Museum, and stole one of the 365 paintings of Cougar Peak. Words cannot describe the tremendous amount of physical and mental endurance that went into creating this body of work. Never again shall I attempt a project of this magnitude, and to have it broken……well, it breaks my heart.
The actions of this individual have not only hurt me, but unfortunately have created a great deal of difficulty for the museum, and the people that work there. An enormous amount of effort was put in by their staff to make the exhibit look as fantastic as it did. It was nothing but a pleasure and honor to have the opportunity to share these paintings with the public, and I was immensely gratified by the enthusiastic response that the show received from all ages and nationalities.
As to the individual that has my painting, I’m flattered you found my work to be so moving, as to risk so much. If it truly means that much to you…..then by all means it’s yours. However you may find that in the end, whatever satisfaction you hoped to receive from my painting eludes your grasp, and what you are left with is only a deep feeling of emptiness. October 18th must hold a special meaning for you; I hope you still find it to be so. Nevertheless, I urge you to choose what is right, and return the painting……mostly for your sake, as well as for the sake of others.
I will be praying that they will come back and not damaged in anyway. I am so very sorry Jared.
Thank you Karen….I appreciate it so much.
This is so very sad they are amazing I hope it gets returned so sorry for the loss
Thanks April. There is always hope.
The theft is such a shame, Jared. I will hope and pray with you for the safe return of the lost one.
Thanks Diana…….It was nice getting to paint with you and Aaron if just for a bit.
Yes it was a lovely spot and you and Aaron both did beautiful paintings there. Mine was a failure, but I went back next morning and was able to do a decent little study. It was good to see you! Wishing you and your family blessings.
So sorry to hear, I can only imagine how you must feel.
I hope a miracle brings you your painting back somehow…
Thank you Ivette. It is definitely a loss, but trying to make the best of it. Appreciate your concerns.
Good grief……..unbelievable. Wishing it makes a safe return.
Crazy huh????! Thanks, hope to get it back at some point….we will see though. Good to hear from you Simon!