Stanley Chow, the Manchester‑based illustrator who created a portrait of Andy Burnham for the politician’s 2021 mayoral campaign, says he is taking legal advice after discovering that the Conservative Party used his artwork on merchandise handed out at their recent conference in Birmingham. The items – water bottles labelled “Bottler Burnham” and “0% strength”, together with sweets branded “Andy Panders’ People Pleaser Pick N Mix” – were distributed to attending media in goody bags. Chow claims the party never sought permission to reproduce his image, describing the move as childish and a clear breach of copyright.
The Conference Giveaway
During the Conservative Party gathering in Birmingham, delegates and press received promotional packs that included bottles of water and packets of sweets featuring Chow’s likeness of Burnham. The bottles carried the tongue‑in‑cheek slogan “Bottler Burnham” and were marked “0% strength”, while the sweets bore the phrase “Andy Panders’ People Pleaser Pick N Mix”. Chow first became aware of the usage when a colleague shared a photograph of the items on social media. He said he was “stunned and angry” when he saw what had been done, adding that the party’s actions felt “childish”.
Artist’s Response and Legal Steps
In a statement to the press, Chow confirmed that he had approached a solicitor for advice on possible copyright infringement. He expressed disappointment that an institution such as the Conservative Party appeared unaware of the need to seek permission before using another creator’s work. “I am taking legal advice,” he stated, “and I want to show other artists that when this happens you can make a stand, especially in this day and age where artists are struggling because of AI and the cost of living.” Chow also reiterated his belief that the unauthorised use of his portrait constitutes copyright infringement, regardless of political allegiance.
Previous Infringement Claims
This is not the first time Chow has alleged that his Burnham portrait has been used without consent. Earlier in the year, he accused Reform UK of incorporating the image into AI‑generated social media posts. A Reform UK spokesman responded at the time, saying the posts had been “removed in good faith and without any admission of liability on our part”. Chow’s legal team is now reviewing both incidents to determine whether a pattern of unauthorised reuse exists.
Background on Stanley Chow
Stanley Chow is a well‑known illustrator in Greater Manchester, celebrated for his bold, simple shapes and sweeping curves. Aside from his political portraits, he has produced widely recognised depictions of footballers such as Wayne Rooney, Edgar Davids and Ronaldinho. His portfolio includes a series titled “Great Northerners”, featuring figures like actress Maxine Peake, suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst and poet Lemn Sissay. Chow has also contributed to cultural projects in his home city, most recently curating an art trail for the Brit Awards’ arrival in Manchester. A lifelong Manchester United fan, he once presented a portrait of Sir Alex Ferguson to the former club manager.
Why it Matters
The controversy highlights a growing tension between political organisations and independent creators in an era where digital content can be copied and redistributed with ease. If Chow’s claim of copyright infringement is upheld, it could set a precedent that discourages parties and campaign groups from appropriating artwork without proper licensing, thereby protecting the livelihoods of illustrators who already face pressures from AI‑generated content and rising living costs. Moreover, the episode underscores the importance of clear communication and consent when public figures or organisations wish to utilise artistic works, reminding all stakeholders that respect for intellectual property is not a partisan issue but a fundamental aspect of creative fairness.
