Artist sues Apple over use of art, style

Miami - Artist Romero Britto is suing Apple and a design firm in Miami federal court for allegedly misusing his colour-splashed images and distinctive style in marketing campaigns.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages from California-based Apple and the design duo Craig Redman of New York and Karl Maier of London, whose company is called Craig & Karl.

Britto's lawsuit, filed on behalf of his Miami Beach-based company Britto Central, makes a number of claims, including copyright infringement and unfair competition. It also asks a judge to halt the alleged misuse of Britto's images.

Apple's "Start Something New" marketing campaign was cited in the lawsuit as one recent example of misuse of Britto art.

Officials at Apple and Craig & Karl did not immediately respond on Monday to emails seeking comment.