Fake Painting Puts New Zealand Prime Minister in Bad Light

Fake Painting Puts New Zealand Prime Minister in Bad Light



WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Wireless Flash) – New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark is getting painted in a bad light by news that she has committed fraud by signing her name on other people’s artworks. Back in 1999, Clark signed a painting by artist Lauren Fouhy and donated the item to a charity, which later auctioned it off to a businessman in Auckland. Clark has since admitted signing her name to six other paintings but now says she regrets her “error in judgment” and has refunded the full amount to the man who bought the painting. However, some New Zealand legal experts say Clark may be open to criminal charges for forgery and fraud. If convicted, Clark could spend ten years in jail but her press officer, David Lewis, doesn’t think that will happen since there was no intent for personal gain.

Tue 04-16-02