Newcastle Brown Ale isn't just hearty — it's also arty. The British beer is trying to lighten things up in San Diego this summer with public art installations building on Newcastle’s “Taste the Lighter Side of Dark” campaign.

First, Newcastle looked to get San Diego residents trapped at the Del Mar Race Track — in a giant pint glass of Newscastle.

“Trapped in a Schooner” is a 3-D optical illusion that allows one person to stand in a certain location, while another climbs inside a three-piece larger-than life replica of Newcastle’s traditional glass, the Geordie Schooner. In the photo, the person appears to be trapped in the drink.Continue reading...

Apple and Google are pressed on tracking and privacy by House committee.

Barnes & Noble target book lovers with new campaign for Nook reader.

Coca-Cola misses profit forecasts because of Japan quake aftermath.

Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros find their music all over adland (incl. MINI Wanderlust campaign).

Electronic Arts selects a different Madden to lead digital push.

Facebook introduces Deals service to rival Groupon and LivingSocial.Continue reading...

Carl's Jr. taps Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Olivia Munn for a cameo, above.

Below, new spots from Newcastle Ale, Lady Gaga, ING Direct, MSNBC and more.Continue reading...