Early Mercy Toronto

King West bar Early Mercy accused of copying artwork

If you've been to Toronto bar and nightclub Early Mercy, you've probably noticed the hipster-fied portraits of historical figures, like Ghandi, Abraham Lincoln and J.F.K.

Early Mercy's designers PD Labs gives local artist Zimmo Lu artist credit for these quirky pieces. But if you've encountered them before, you'll know they look quite similar to Israeli illustrator Amit Shimoni's Hipstory series.

As the Toronto Star reports today, Shimoni's rep Yair Osheroff originally tried to work out a licensing deal with the King West hot spot. He's now gotten a local lawyer, as the Star writes, and might sue.

If you're into Shimoni's work, and want to adorn your walls with hip-looking world leaders, you can shop his collection locally at Nuvango.

Photo by Jesse Milns.


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Arts

The best wildlife photography in the world is coming to Toronto

Toronto museum about to be taken over by dazzling light and projection show

Beloved Toronto holiday tradition is back after almost ending for good

Groundbreaking new Hip Hop exhibit opens at the AGO in Toronto

Toronto store that's been family-owned since 1945 gets major makeover

5 live theatre shows in Toronto to watch over the holidays

Toronto theatre could soon be redeveloped into condos

Huge art fair now open in Toronto showcases incredible and unusual art