NY Jury Awards $102.2M in Unlicensed Robert Indiana Art Suit
A New York jury has awarded $102.2 million in damages to the Morgan Art Foundation after finding that art publisher Michael McKenzie created unauthorized or adulterated versions of Robert Indiana's work. The verdict, reached in federal court in Manhattan, concluded an eight-year legal battle that began around Indiana's death in May 2018 at age 89. The suit alleged McKenzie isolated Indiana in his final years and produced works without authority, including unauthorized versions of Indiana's iconic 'LOVE' image. McKenzie's lawyer, Nicole Brenecki, stated he is evaluating an appeal, calling the award 'astronomical.' The case has been closely watched by the art world for its implications on artists' rights and legacy management.
Key facts
- Jury awarded $102.2 million in damages to Morgan Art Foundation.
- Defendant Michael McKenzie found to have created unauthorized or adulterated Robert Indiana works.
- Suit claimed McKenzie isolated Indiana and interfered with Morgan's rights.
- Unauthorized works included versions of Indiana's famous 'LOVE' image.
- Verdict reached in federal court in Manhattan.
- Legal battle began around Indiana's death in May 2018 at age 89.
- McKenzie's lawyer Nicole Brenecki said he may appeal.
- Case watched closely by the art world for its implications.
Entities
Artists
- Robert Indiana
Institutions
- Morgan Art Foundation
- Michael McKenzie
Locations
- New York
- Manhattan
- Maine