Landscape without figure? We demand the return of Hepworth's sculpture to Stavanger

We are mourning the loss of our most significant piece of public art in Stavanger, Norway. We ask you to sign the petition, to protest against the opportunistic sale of public art, and the devastating lack of curatorship of our towns most valuable art treasure.

The sculpture "Figure for Landscape", created by the renowned Barbara Hepworth, was bought as a gift for the beautification of our town (by the city council et al) in 1968. The figure stood on the front lawn of Stavanger Kunsthall - a plot of land originally donated to the local arts society by the city council. The arts society, now Kunsthall, is in dire straights financially. The board has decided to have the sculpture cut down and sent to Christie's for auction, in order to finance future activities. Within two weeks of making that call, we are now faced with a Landscape without Figure. We protest against the theft of public property and demand Hepworth's sculpture returned to Stavanger!

Birgitta Haga Gripsrud    Contact the author of the petition