Urban explorers uncover ‘lost’ art

Urban Explorers have discovered a potentially valuable cache of art in a Pyrmont warehouse.

Students with a hobby for exploring derelict buildings were investigating an abandoned lot on Bank Street when they discovered more than 15 works of art.

One of the students who organised the expedition said: “We didn’t know how far we would get through the house because some of the doors were locked; one of the surprises was finding artwork in one of the empty rooms.”

Many of the artworks found have been identified by the students as abstract depictions of the Pyrmont area done by Willoughby-based artist Patti Somerset.

72 year old Somerset’s last painting was sold for $350 in March at the Hardware Gallery.

The potential value of the discovered collection is high as all of the artworks are in good condition – many are framed and are larger than 1x1m in size.

The Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (SHFA), which bought the warehouse in 2007, denied the presence of any artwork within their property.

The SHFA, a government body, complained that urban explorers have been damaging and vandalising their property and the repairs are costing tax payer dollars.

After hearing about the discovery Jane Bennet, a former colleague of Somerset’s from Alexander Mackie College, said it’s common for artists to lose track of their work.

“Artists always look for the cheapest possible studio space, and this is often found in run down areas that are in a state of flux,” she said.

“You can turn up to find you have little notice to get your things out and find another studio. And transporting your work and equipment can be an issue… Sometimes things get left behind”.

Bennet, who has achieved international recognition for her paintings of the Pyrmont area, claims Australian artists and their work are regularly mistreated.

“I’m afraid in this country art doesn’t get proper respect, some people treat it like rubbish,” she claimed.

“It’s helped make the image of this county, yet it’s treated like it’s produced by clowns or idiots,” added Ms Bennet.

The artworks remain in the Bank Street warehouse.

By Nicholas Jordan