A WELL-KNOWN artist is taking legal action against the production company behind the RTE show 'Love/Hate'.

Donegal-born Kevin Sharkey has claimed that copyright was breached after three of his works featured repeatedly on screen during seasons one and two of the gangland drama.

The paintings were hanging in the penthouse apartment of underworld criminal John Boy, played by Aidan Gillen, and are clearly on view in several scenes during which the characters are seen taking drugs.

Sharkey filed for damages against Octagon Films and RTE with the High Court last week.

Solicitor Joseph O'Malley confirmed Sharkey was taking the case for "infringement of copyright and a consequential claim for damages".

The artist, who has a gallery in Dublin's Temple Bar, previously told of his frustration that his art was being portrayed as being admired by criminals.

"I love what I have seen of 'Love/Hate' so far and my decision to pursue the producers is purely a legal matter," he said.

"Having my work portrayed as liked by a dangerous killer and drug addict is the problem. It might seem cool to the lads in Ballymun, but they don't buy my paintings."

When contacted by the Irish Independent last night, Mr Sharkey declined to comment.

Meanwhile, 'Love/Hate' actress Susan Loughnane has told of how she has a part-time job working in an Abercrombie & Fitch clothing store in the UK.

The IFTA-award winner is based in London.

"Every two months or so I take a shift and go in there," she said on 'Saturday Night with Miriam'.

"Occasionally people recognise me. I just keep the job in case."

Irish Independent