The front entrance of the Uptown Waterloo Parkade sits empty after an iconic bronze sculpture was stolen late last month, leaving both the local art community and the family of the artist devastated. The artwork, Triad, Dual Interface and Reunited, was created in 1981 by local artist Ann Roberts. Valued at approximately $175,000, it was the very first piece of public art purchased by the City of Waterloo and had been a mainstay in uptown for decades. According to Waterloo Regional Police Service, the sculpture went missing at the end of October. “We’re not too sure how it was removed, but we suspect power tools were involved as the metal posts were cut off. Pretty sheer,” said Sonya Poweska, culture program specialist for the City of Waterloo. A pillar of the region’s arts community Roberts, who turned 90 in August, is a celebrated figure in the local arts scene. She was a founding member of the Waterloo Potters’ Workshop and instrumental in establishing The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. “Ann Roberts is really the heart of the institution,” said Sarah Stanners, executive director and chief curator at The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. “Our library and archives is named after her.” Over the decades, Roberts donated roughly 30 works to the gallery’s collection. “Her sculptures are full of whimsy, but also actual technical skill,” Stanners said. “Her work is really fascinating. It’s not your typical ceramic art that you would imagine. It’s an absolute shame that her work would be disrespected so brazenly.” A personal loss For Roberts’ family, the theft hits close to home. “My mother would walk by with me and point it out - she really liked it,” said her daughter, Linden Roberts. “I think a number of other people in the community really liked that sculpture. It’s a pity that another sculpture is disappearing. I hope the motive isn’t sort of against art, because public art is really for everyone.” While Roberts no longer actively creates art, her family believes her lifelong passion remains strong. “When we go to galleries, even though she has dementia, she really does remember,” Linden said. “She still relates to art.” Police are continuing to investigate the theft and are asking anyone with information to come forward. While the city may eventually install a new piece of art outside the parkade, some art lovers believe Roberts’ unique work can never truly be replaced.
