AirAsia Used Penang Mural Artwork without Permission, Says Artist
Artist’s Shock and Anger
Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, who first painted the ‘Children on a Bicycle’ mural and two others during the 2012 George Town Festival, has expressed shock and anger after discovering that budget carrier AirAsia had used his artwork on its planes without his permission.
No Permission Granted
Ernest Zacharevic said that AirAsia did not seek his permission to use the “Children on a Bicycle” artwork, adding that it was not the first time that the airline had used his pieces without his consent. He claimed that he had contacted the airline over the previous cases but “there was no positive outcome”.
Direct Resolution Sought
Zacharevic said he will not take legal action for now but will try to resolve the matter directly with AirAsia. He hopes that the airline will understand the importance of respecting the intellectual property rights of artists and take steps to rectify the situation.
Iconic Murals
Zacharevic recently helped restore three iconic street art murals that he had painted in George Town. In addition to “Children on a Bicycle”, the others are “Boy on Motorbike” on Ah Quee Street, and “Boy on Chair” on Cannon Street. The artist’s works were later featured in Lonely Planet’s Street Art book, compiled by independent curator Ed Bartlett in 2017.
Global Attention
The artist’s murals, which were first painted during the 2012 George Town Festival, gained worldwide attention and have since become iconic landmarks in George Town. The murals have also become a popular tourist attraction, with many visitors flocking to the area to take photos in front of the colorful artworks.
AirAsia’s Response
FMT has reached out to AirAsia for comment, but the airline has yet to respond.
Conclusion
The use of Ernest Zacharevic’s artwork on AirAsia’s planes without his permission is a serious issue that highlights the importance of respecting the intellectual property rights of artists. It is hoped that AirAsia will take steps to rectify the situation and work with the artist to find a resolution.
FAQs
Q: Did AirAsia seek Ernest Zacharevic’s permission to use his artwork on its planes?
A: No, AirAsia did not seek Zacharevic’s permission to use his artwork.
Q: Is this the first time AirAsia has used Zacharevic’s artwork without his consent?
A: No, according to Zacharevic, this is not the first time AirAsia has used his pieces without his consent.
Q: What action will Zacharevic take?
A: Zacharevic will not take legal action for now but will try to resolve the matter directly with AirAsia.
Q: What are the iconic murals that Zacharevic painted in George Town?
A: The murals are “Children on a Bicycle”, “Boy on Motorbike”, and “Boy on Chair”.