A Norwich painter livening up NR2 with his lamppost art says he is honoured that a handful were pinched by passers-by.
Matthew Bowles is a retired printer living in Norwich — and only began taking painting seriously three years ago.
Between September 25 and October 10, you might have seen his creations adorning lampposts at 14 different spots in and around the city, from Unthank Road all the way to Vauxhall Street.
Designed to be "accessible", and blend in with the scenery, the paintings show snapshots of their surrounding environment.
But not all made it home safely, as four of Mr Bowles' favourites were nicked in plain sight.
The 68-year-old said: "Norfolk Open Studios runs for two weeks every year and involves artists opening their studios to the public, and maybe giving them some tea and biscuits or something.
"This year was the first since 2019 because of the pandemic.
"I'm part of a collective working out of Norwich Art Shop on Upper St Giles Street, and for my contribution I wanted to quite literally open my studio by putting up my art in public places.
"I have to admit, I thought it was really quite complementary to see my work get stolen.
"It's hardly as if it flies off the shelves, so it was a bit of a boost."
In light of the pandemic, Mr Bowles said the art world had been hit hard — but was bouncing back.
He said: "After those of us in Norwich Art Shop put ourselves out there on the Open Studios trail, there were so many more people coming through the doors.
"The issue with the art world is that it's a very crowded market. There's lots of us selling art, but not a lot of people buying it.
"I think that's why people like my art: it's pictures of streets where people grew up, things they can recognise. And it's not going to cost you a fortune."
Mr Bowles said one of the paintings is still in place — just behind Fabulous Frames on Upper St Giles Street — but asked that any thieves might go through the proper channels if they'd like a copy.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here