Creativity has a price, and AirAsia is being asked to pay up.Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic has slapped the budget carrier with a lawsuit, accusing them of hijacking his famous "Children on Bicycle" mural for their corporate branding without permission.

The legal battle, filed in the Kuala Lumpur High Court, centers on the alleged copyright infringement of the iconic street art located in Penang.Zacharevic claims that AirAsia and its parent company, Capital A, plastered his work onto the livery of a commercial aircraft and used it in marketing campaigns. "This repeated behavior sets a harmful precedent," the artist stated, arguing that his intellectual property was exploited for profit without a cent of royalties paid.

David vs. Goliath

The lawsuit is not just about one painting; it is a fight for the rights of artists everywhere. Zacharevic’s lawyer confirmed that they are seeking a court order to stop the airline from using the image, as well as damages for the unauthorized usage dating back to 2016.The artist contends that his work is not a generic public backdrop but a distinct creation that required skill, labor, and vision.

AirAsia has yet to issue a formal response, but the implications are significant. Corporations often treat street art as public domain, but this case challenges that assumption. Zacharevic is demanding recognition and respect, asserting that the commercialization of art requires the consent of the creator.

• The Artwork: The "Children on Bicycle" mural in Penang is a cultural landmark and tourist attraction.
• The Allegation: AirAsia used the image on planes and ads without licensing or credit.
• The Goal: The suit seeks an injunction, damages, and a declaration of the artist's moral rights.

The Value of Art

This clash highlights the tension between public art and private profit. By taking a stand, Zacharevic is drawing a line in the sand for the creative community. He is sending a message that while art may be on the street, it does not belong to whoever has the biggest marketing budget.

As the case heads to court, the "Children on Bicycle" continue their ride on the walls of George Town. But now, they ride with the weight of a legal precedent on their shoulders. The outcome will decide whether artists can protect their work from the grasp of corporate giants.