A University of Suffolk student has been left devastated after her precious artwork was stolen from a faculty exhibition.
Claire Righini-Brand, 22, was nervously awaiting the examination of her work when an unknown person entered the gallery and stole a book of her photography.
The incident happened on Saturday, May 26 shortly after the invigilator was due to examine the exhibition. It is believed the book may have been stolen between 4pm and 4.20pm.
The photography student referred the case to Suffolk police, who confirmed the incident is currently under investigation.
Ms Righini-Brand had six books of photography on display, which were due to be assessed to determine her final grade. The work was also part of the Photo East Photography Festival on Ipswich’s waterfront.
She said: “I don’t know the reasons for taking it, but it is honestly devastating to have the work taken and not complete anymore.
“The books are based around my subconscious thought. Each one represents a significant thought or fear or vulnerability that I have. Each book is its own narrative.”
Luckily, Ms Righini-Brand’s final grade will not be compromised by the theft.
She added: “I have spoken to the tutors and they did get a chance to assess it as the six. My grade won’t be affected.”
In a statement posted to the Facebook event for the exhibition, The University of Suffolk (UOS) Photography Show 2018 wrote: “Unfortunately, one of the books belonging to Claire Righini-Brand’s project was removed from our show today. If you know who has stolen the book, please message us, or ask the person to return the book to the shelf it was removed from.
“The book is a black, 6x4 book titled ‘I wanted to tell you I’ve changed’ with Claire’s name on the back. All books present at our show are to be returned after viewing, as these not only belong to the students and the show but are part of our final submissions which are to be marked. Many thanks, the Photography class of 2018.”
A spokesperson for Suffolk police said: “The incident is currently under investigation and enquiries are ongoing.
“If anyone has any information then they should call Suffolk police on 101 quoting the reference 29471/18, or call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Ms Righini-Brand, who is originally from Lincolnshire, is expecting her final degree result soon.
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