Artist battles Temu over unauthorized use of her mosaic design

South Australian artist Julie Aldridge is engaged in a battle with Chinese e-commerce giant Temu, accusing the company of using her "Sunset Wave" mosaic design without authorization. Aldridge, based in Port Lincoln, first created the intricate mosaic for an exhibition in 2013, but it initially failed to sell.

Months later, an American client discovered the work through the online platform Pinterest and purchased it. Aldridge believes the mosaic was uploaded online from the original exhibition, eventually finding its way to Pinterest. The original artwork now resides with a private owner in California.

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I'd write to them and say, 'What are you doing? You can't just take someone's work and claim it as your own.'

Over the years, Aldridge has encountered numerous unauthorized replicas of "Sunset Wave" appearing online, featured on items like quilts, canvases, and coloring sheets. She has previously contacted those using her work, seeking permission, accreditation, and compensation. However, she describes the situation with Temu as "next level."

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It's just next level

Aldridge discovered "Sunset Wave" being reproduced on a variety of rugs sold through Temu, with over 20 sellers listing the design at one point. While Temu was responsive to her initial reports and removed the offending listings, Aldridge found another rug featuring her design shortly after. She anticipates that further unauthorized uses of her work will likely emerge on the platform.

Describing the experience as "soul destroying," Aldridge highlights the profound lack of control artists have over their creations. The "Sunset Wave" mosaic represented years of learning, honing her craft, and dedicated work. The unauthorized reproduction and sale of her art represent a significant emotional and professional toll.

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It took real work, years of experience, and then your art is taken away from you. It's just soul destroying, really