Art theft is stealing a painting from a wall.
Sometimes the term “theft” is accurate and it always attracts attention.
The word “theft” can be used casually, sometimes to describe copying any part of an artwork. The term “theft” also defines actual criminal conduct and is associated to a harsh moral judgment that may go too far.
Stealing an object is theft. Using artwork without permission isn’t technically a “theft.” It might be copyright infringement or violate a contract.