Samsung has launched a virtual exhibition called Missing Masterpieces, which is a digital collection of 12 iconic lost artworks from artists including Van Gogh and Monet.
Missing Masterpieces features works of art that global law enforcement agencies are still attempting to find. Art lovers and amateur detectives can help in the search by sharing tips, theories or clues using #MissingMasterpieces.
These works of art can’t be physically seen anywhere. They have been combined for the first time to be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home.
They include ‘View Auvers-sur-Oise’ by Paul Cézanne, which went missing on NYE in 1999, and ‘Chloe & Emma’ by Barbora Kysilkova, which was stolen from Norway.
Also part of the exhibition are ‘White Duck’ by Jean Baptiste Oudry and ‘Portrait of Dr Gachet’ by Van Gogh, which were last seen nearly 30 years ago.
Share theories and clues with #MissingMasterpieces
“Art is for the enjoyment of everyone, and we have a collective responsibility to protect and preserve our culture for future generations,” said Nathan Sheffield, head of visual display for Samsung Europe.
“This is why we are launching Missing Masterpieces, to ensure priceless pieces that may never be seen again, can be enjoyed by as wide an audience as possible.
“The Frame embodies this, helping to democratise art for everyone and acting as both a TV and a window into the world of art,” added Sheffield.
The digital collection allows art fans to experience and learn more about these lost pieces of art, some of which may never be discovered.
‘White Duck’ by Jean Baptiste Oudry
During lockdown, at least six works of art have been stolen, including Van Gogh’s ‘Spring Garden’, which was taken on what would have been the artist’s 167th birthday.
Missing Masterpieces is available for free to users of Samsung’s ‘The Frame’ TV, which functions as a multimedia art platform, in the ‘Art Store’ catalogue.
The Frame offers ‘Art Mode’, which turns the black screen into a gallery of art collections. It is equipped with QLED technology with artworks expressed in HD.
The exhibition was curated in partnership with Dr Noah Charney, an art crime expert and founder of the Association for Research into Crimes Against Art (ARCA).
‘Charing Cross Bridge’ by Claude Monet
“Before you get to work on a puzzle, you want to gather all the pieces, right? It’s the same with a crime or a mysterious loss,” said Charney.
“From contradictory media reports to speculation in Reddit feeds – the clues are out there, but the volume of information can be overwhelming.
“This is where technology and social media can help by bringing people together to assist the search. It’s not unheard of for an innocuous tip posted online to be the key that unlocks a case.”
Missing Masterpieces is live for three months from November 12 through February 10.
