US homeland security criticised for using Japanese artist's work without consent

The Department of Homeland Security posted an image on X using artwork by Hiroshi Nagai without his permission, and Nagai has objected; the Guardian has reached out to DHS for comment.

The Department of Homeland Security posted an image on X on New Year's Eve that used artwork associated with Hiroshi Nagai, and the artist has said the image was used without his permission. Nagai, a 78-year-old Japanese graphic designer known for city pop and dreamscape images, posted on X to object and asked what he should do about the use. The Guardian has contacted DHS for a response. This incident follows earlier reports of the department or administration accounts sharing other artists' work and music without consent. Key reported points: - DHS posted an image on X showing a vacant beach scene with text framed as reflecting mass deportations. - Hiroshi Nagai publicly objected on X, saying the image was used without his permission and asking how to proceed. - The Guardian has reached out to DHS for comment about the post. - The report notes earlier related incidents, including a previously shared Thomas Kinkade painting and complaints from musicians about use of their songs. Summary: The artist has publicly contested the Department of Homeland Security's use of his artwork, and news outlets have sought a response from the agency. Undetermined at this time.