JOY Burch says the Civic artwork “On the Staircase” by Keld Moseholm is being removed for repair today.

“Since being installed in 2009, the much loved and very popular bronze and copper artwork has suffered six attacks of vandalism resulting in malicious damage and theft,” Minister for the Arts Joy Burch said.

“Most recently, the smallest man on the staircase was stolen. The cast bronze figure has since been recovered by ACT Police using CCTV documentation and following a public call for assistance.

“Through a community conferencing process, the person responsible has formally apologised to the artist and agreed to pay for the restoration and reinstatement of the little man as part of repair work.

“Following the repairs, On The Staircase will be relocated and on display to the public in a new high profile location, to be announced soon.”