Home / Arts and Entertainment / Art Publisher Loses $102M Copyright Infringement Case
Art Publisher Loses $102M Copyright Infringement Case
25 Apr
Summary
- Art publisher Michael McKenzie found liable for copyright infringement.
- Jury awarded Morgan Art Foundation $102.2 million in damages.
- The case involved unauthorized works derived from Robert Indiana's art.
A New York jury has ruled against art publisher Michael McKenzie, finding him liable for copyright and trademark infringement related to unauthorized works derived from artist Robert Indiana's creations. The Morgan Art Foundation, Indiana's former business partner, was awarded $102.2 million in damages.
The extensive legal battle, which began around the time of Robert Indiana's death in May 2018, involved claims of forgery, unpaid royalties, and elder abuse. Morgan had previously settled disputes with Indiana's caretaker and estate in 2021.
This latest verdict found McKenzie's creations, including those based on the iconic 'LOVE' imagery and a sculpture titled 'BRAT,' damaged Indiana's market and reputation. McKenzie's defense argued that Morgan's contracts were invalid and his productions did not constitute infringement.
Prior to the trial, McKenzie faced sanctions for discovery misconduct. The ruling marks a significant conclusion to the protracted dispute over Robert Indiana's artistic legacy and market integrity.
