The last part of that quote is apt for Launceston art lovers, as there is a piece of Whiteley’s art we may never know, even though it is part of the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Galley’s collection.

Whiteley’s Waves V drawing was bought by the museum in 1976 and recorded as part of its collection, but has not been seen since.

It has never been displayed in Launceston.

Launceston Art Society president Carolyn Riley said she was unaware the museum had a Whiteley work, but said the mystery around its disappearance was “a bit exciting”.

“I’m disappointed it wasn’t on show,” she said.

“It would be nice if we could have some sort of recognition of his work.”

There is no photographic or digital image of the drawing, which Whiteley produced in the mid 1970s.

Waves V was bought for $800 and its value is unknown, however similar works have sold between $20,000 and $30,000.

Gallery storage containers have been searched and employees from the time when the Whiteley work was acquired have been contacted.

City of Launceston owns the museum.

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