Artist 'taking legal advice' over Tories' use of Andy Burnham portrait
Manchester illustrator Stanley Chow says he is getting legal advice after alleging the Conservative Party used his portrait of Andy Burnham without permission at its conference.
Chow made the image for Burnham’s 2021 campaign to become Greater Manchester mayor. The Conservatives distributed water bottles and sweets mocking Burnham at the event.
The artist said he was shocked and angry to see the portrait used. He said he wants to highlight that artwork cannot simply be used without consent.
Chow has also accused Reform UK of using the image in AI-created social media campaign material several months ago. The article does not report the outcome of either allegation.
Burnham has used Chow’s portrait in various campaigns, including his Makerfield election bid in June. Chow is known for portraits of public figures and footballers.
Key points
- Chow says the Conservatives used his Burnham portrait without permission at their conference.
- He is taking legal advice and has also accused Reform UK of copyright infringement.
- The image was created for Burnham’s 2021 Greater Manchester mayoral campaign.