Framed desert landscape painting
Description
I found a framed desert landscape painting this afternoon around 2:15pm in the parking lot behind the Yuma Art Center on 4th Avenue. The piece is about 12 by 16 inches, housed in a black wood frame with a thin gold inner lip and a small chip along the top edge. It shows a sunset over desert scrub with earthy tones and a winding blue river, with soft brushwork that almost feels watercolor-like. There's a signature in the bottom right that reads 'M. Ortega 2019' and a tiny gallery label on the back. If this is yours, it's waiting to be picked up and will be kept safe until the owner claims it.
Approximate found location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely return this item
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the owner before handing it back
- Ask the claimant for a specific identifying detail before confirming.
- If valuable, ask for a photo with matching ID, receipt, or original packaging.
- Never post the precise location publicly. Share it only with a verified owner.
- Do not accept payment to return it. That is a red flag for a scam claim.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.