Snapchat Accused Of Ripping Off An Artist’s Portrait For A Filter

Alexander Khokhlov, a Russian artist and photographer based in Moscow. In 2013, he teamed up with makeup artist Valeriya Kutsan to photograph these stunning geometric designs painted on models as part of a project called 2D or not 2D.

Alexander Khokhlov / Via Facebook: khokhlov.alexander

Alexander Khokhov

Alexander Khokhov / Via Facebook: khokhlov.alexander

These portraits were featured in a number of outlets, including several art and pop culture magazines. They also were featured at the Dubai International Film Festival, according to the artist’s website.

The series was also included in Designcollector’s top 10 Russian projects of 2013.

One portrait was featured on the July/August 2014 edition of Scientific American Mind.

Alexander Khokhlov / Via facebook.com

Recently, fans began to point out online that an image extremely similar to that one has sprung up as a new filter on Snapchat.

Snapchat told BuzzFeed News in a statement that the filter does appear to resemble other artistic work.

“We agree that this lens is similar to other artists’ creations and we have removed it,” said a Snapchat spokesperson. “We are sorry for this embarrassing mistake and we are taking action to make sure it won’t happen again.”

It is unclear whether Khokhlov will pursue any legal action against the company.

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