‘We need to talk’: Artist surprised to see his iconic Penang mural on AirAsia plane

An iconic Penang mural has been used as a livery on an AirAsia plane – much to the surprise of the artist, who said the airline did not seek his permission.

Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic said he saw his Children On A Bicycle artwork on one of AirAsia’s aircraft at the Penang International Airport on Nov 22.

The artwork is one of Mr Zacharevic’s most well-known murals since he painted it in 2012, drawing fans and tourists from all over the world to the Malaysian island.

Mr Zacharevic took a picture of the AirAsia plane and posted it on his Instagram story on the same day, tagging AirAsia and its founder and chief executive Tony Fernandes with the caption: “I think we need to talk.”

“I first noticed it on my friend’s Instagram story and then I saw it myself at the airport on Friday,” he told The Straits Times in a text message.

The Penang-based artist said he was not approached by the budget carrier for permission to use his artwork. He added that this was not the first time AirAsia has used his works without consent.

“I have contacted them in the past but there was no positive outcome,” he said, adding that he has not been approached by the airline in this latest incident as well.

Still, Mr Zacharevic,

who restored Children On A Bicycle

as well as three other celebrated paintings in October, said he is not taking legal action – for now.

“I will attempt to resolve this case directly with AirAsia first.”

ST has contacted AirAsia for comment.