New evidence in Robert Indiana estate trial implicates assistant and publisher

The legal battle over Robert Indiana's estate has intensified as text messages presented in a Manhattan district court appear to implicate his assistant Jamie Thomas and publisher Michael McKenzie in manipulating the artist's will and producing dubious artworks. The Morgan Art Foundation (MAF), which holds the trademark for Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture, filed a lawsuit in May 2019 accusing the pair of exploiting the aging artist, isolating him from friends, and creating unauthorized works. The contested will allegedly names Thomas as director of a museum Indiana planned to establish in his Vinalhaven, Maine home—a role MAF's lawyer argues Thomas is unqualified for. Text evidence reveals discussions between Thomas and McKenzie about producing sculptures of words like WINE (featured on Wine Enthusiast magazine) and BRAT (sold to a Wisconsin sausage maker), which MAF claims damaged Indiana's reputation. Further messages mention plans for HOME and BEER sculptures. McKenzie has defended the works, stating Indiana approved them and received profits, intending to fund the museum. The Maine Attorney General's office is monitoring the case, and the estate, estimated at $50 million, is under scrutiny for potential asset misappropriation. The trial continues.