The Icelandic artist ODEE has lost his request to appeal against the fishing company Samherji regarding intellectual property infringement, malicious falsehood and passing off. This is a very disappointing ruling that continues to illustrate the power of big business to squash criticism and debate.
The Icelandic artist ODEE (Oddur Eysteinn Friðriksson), has put normal life on hold while he awaits the outcome of a lawsuit against him by one of the largest fishing companies in Europe, the Icelandic-based Samherji. The case relates to his artwork which draws attention to what’s known as the #Fishrot scandal, originally brought to light by whistleblower Jóhannes Stefansson. More than 30 publications/media platforms have now covered the story discussing the consequences of artists using their right to freely express themselves and explore social and political issues.
