We were sad to learn that beloved queer brand Bernhard Willhelm has stolen and exploited, either through negligence or hubris, the work of two independent queer artists. Pansy Ass Ceramics (@pansyassceramics) created the enamel pin shown above right in 2017, which features original bird artwork by Pansy Ass partner Kris Aaron (you can buy the pin here).
Willhelm’s team lifted the entire image for use on a T-shirt (we wouldn’t be surprised if it’s a Google Image screenshot taken by a lazy design assistant), which was then photographed for a Tush Magazine editorial. Kudos to model Aquaria for calling out the label on its thievery.
At the time of this post, there has been no acknowledgment or apology from the Bernhard Willhelm atelier.
SHADY AF!!!