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21. 05. 09. - 16:00

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21. 05. 09. - 16:00

Police hunt artist missing from Linz European Culture showcase

By Thomas Hochwarter

Police are searching for a young woman who went missing nine days ago.

Authorities said yesterday (Weds) 32-year-old artist Barbara Pitschmann had disappeared after holding a press conference on Tuesday last week.

Pitschmann, mother of a 13-year-old son, is involved in ongoing projects in Linz this year as part of the city’s Europe’s Capital of Culture 2009.

A police spokesman said: "We are investigating in all directions throughout the country. We have had no success so far."

Pitschmann only had some cash with her, it is assumed, while her family has her passport and mobile phone.

Her mother Veronika Pitschmann, 55, said: "We first thought her disappearance was part of an artistic performance – but now we are so worried. I am sure she did not leave us without giving any notice.

"Barbara often travelled the world with a rucksack as she is interested in other countries and cultures – but she always kept in touch from internet cafés."

However, her mother added a point of disquiet. "She said she (her daughter) was feeling not well physically as her latest projects put her under a lot of pressure. She told a friend that she would like to get in her car and drive to a faraway place."

Linz09 director Martin Heller said: "She seemed nervous and stressed – as if she was unable to fully focus."

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