Quavo is being sued by renowned visual artist Daniel Arsham for using one of his iconic sculptures in a promo without permission.
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The New York-based artist claims Quavo appeared alongside his life-sized 1961 Ferrari GT sculpture without securing a license.
Arsham filed a complaint in Manhattan’s Southern District of New York, claiming that the “infringing video features Quavo performing in front of the artwork,” which is currently registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. Adding, the monochromatic piece is displayed “prominently” in the 45-second video.
The video, released across Quavo’s social media platforms in December, includes scenes of him performing his track “Trappa Rappa” while interacting with the sculpture. Quavo also shared still images of the artwork on Instagram, tagging Arsham’s account in the posts.
In addition to Quavo, the lawsuit names his label, Quality Control Music, and its partner HYBE America, accusing them of knowingly participating in and profiting from the alleged infringement.
“On information and belief, QCM had actual or constructive knowledge of the infringing activities complained of herein, participated materially in said activities, had the right and ability to control said activities, and stood to realize, have realized and continue to realize, a direct and indirect financial benefit therefrom,” according to the lawsuit.
Arsham is seeking damages and injunctive relief for direct, contributory and vicarious copyright infringement. He also wants a trial by jury. While no specific figure is mentioned, Arsham’s artworks typically sell for several hundred thousand dollars.
Arsham is well known in the hip-hop community, having previously created sculptures for Jay-Z’s Book of Hov exhibit and designed album covers for Nas’ The Lost Tapes 2 and Gunna’s DS4Ever.
