Artist sues Apple over use of art, style

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

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages from Cupertino, 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 Inc, 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 today to emails seeking comment.