[MSN] New Affordable Anti-Theft Device for Hanging Art

[Museum Security Network Mailinglist]

New Affordable Anti-Theft Device for Hanging Art

WESTON, Conn., Feb. 14, 2007 -- Vootner Goushe, a Connecticut-based company,
has brought to market the first self-contained, affordable device designed
to prevent theft of hanging art and objects. 

Designed to replace picture hooks, the device, called Art Guard(R), contains
a pressure-sensitive switch that is activated when the artwork is hung on a
wall and sets off a 120-db, battery-operated alarm if theft is attempted. A
patent is pending for the unique design. 

Much of the more than $5 billion of art stolen annually results from what
experts call "grab and run" or the casual concealment of pieces in clothing
or bags. Art Guard was designed to address the need for a primary or
redundant preventive measure that any individual, institution, museum or
gallery can use to deter theft. 

Art Guard can safely support up to 25 lbs. and is about the size of a thin
cell phone. Batteries have a 1-year life and emit a low battery sound when
weak. In addition to the alarm, spring steel capture clips hanging from
either side of the Art Guard can be clipped onto the hanging wire. Any
unauthorized attempt to remove the work will first be met by the alarm,
then, if necessary, by the sturdy clips. 

Art Guard is easy to install, reliable, discreet and flexible, and its
effect is immediate. Whether hung in series as a system or as protection for
an individual work, Art Guard is a breakthrough in the protection of hanging
art. 

The Art Guard units retail for under $40 each. They are sold in packs of 10
and can be ordered directly from Art Guard's website at
http://www.ArtGuard.net. 

"Art Guard is a necessity for any person, business or institution displaying
hanging art or objects," said Bill Anderson, a founder and partner. "As our
motto states, 'If it's worth hanging, it's worth protecting.'" 

Photos:
http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2007-ArtGuard.jpg
http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2007-ArtGuard2.jpg 

For more information, contact Bill Anderson at (212) 989-1594.