Stan Chow Seeks Legal Counsel Over Conservative Party's Unauthorised Andy Burnham Portrait Use

Manchester-based illustrator Stan Chow has initiated legal proceedings regarding the Conservative Party's deployment of his portrait of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in campaign literature. Mr Chow explicitly stated that he did not grant permission for the artwork's use by the political party.

The artwork, a distinctive cartoon rendition of Mr Burnham, appeared in Conservative Party social media posts targeting the Labour mayor. Mr Chow, a recognised figure for his caricatures of prominent personalities, highlighted that the unauthorised use constitutes a copyright infringement.

“I am currently taking legal advice,” Mr Chow confirmed, underscoring his intention to address the unapproved commercial and political exploitation of his intellectual property. This incident highlights ongoing disputes over copyright and image rights in political campaigning, particularly when artists' works are appropriated without consent or compensation.