Episode 107: When a Big Brand Echoes Sophie Corks’ Style

30 December 2025 | Paint Rest Repeat Podcast for Artists

TL;DR: When Australian artist Sophie Corks spotted a canvas print from a major retailer that looked strikingly similar to her own artwork, it triggered a bigger conversation around artistic ethics, imitation, and power imbalance. In Episode 107 of the Paint Rest Repeat podcast, Sophie opens up about the emotional, professional, and ethical impact of this experience - and what it means for independent artists navigating full-time creativity.

What Artists Need to Know About Creative Ethics and Power Imbalance

What really happens when a big brand releases art that looks a little too familiar? In this episode, contemporary artist Sophie Corks shares how she went full-time, found creative community, and what unfolded when a major retailer released artwork that closely echoed her style. It’s a raw, honest conversation about power imbalance, ethical grey zones, and protecting your creative voice - plus the joy, colour, and nostalgia that define her work.

Let's dive in!

Here for the links referenced in the episode?

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Sophie on Instagram - Connect with Sophie https://www.instagram.com/sophiecorks_art

Episode 107: Listen using the player below, or click on your favourite listening platform to subscribe and listen there:

What This Episode Is Really About

At first glance, the situation Sophie Corks found herself in might seem like an artist's nightmare: discovering a mass-produced print from a large national retailer that mirrors the essence of her original work. But this episode goes deeper than just the visual similarities.

It's about ethics, not just legality. It's about how major companies operate in the "grey zones" of artistic inspiration. And it's about what artists can do when faced with these complex power dynamics.

Who Is Sophie Corks?

Sophie Corks is a contemporary Australian artist based in Orange, NSW. Her work is instantly recognisable for its joyful depictions of Australian suburbia, motherhood, and nostalgic scenes. With a background in cricket, motherhood, and regional life, Sophie's colourful, emotion-driven art has captured hearts across the country. Her 2023 solo show Town and Country sold out on opening weekend.

But behind that success lies a thoughtful, strategic artist navigating the reality of full-time creative work, family life, and ethical dilemmas in the art world.

What Happened with the Retailer?

Earlier this year, Sophie was alerted to a product listing on a well-known retailer's website that bore an uncanny resemblance to one of her paintings. The subject matter, composition, and even stylistic details appeared familiar - though different enough to avoid legal copyright infringement.

Upon investigation, Sophie discovered that the retailer had internally referenced her work during their design process. She, along with other affected artists, reached out to the company with concerns. The retailer responded by removing the product temporarily for review, but the deeper ethical questions remained unresolved.

Why This Matters

This story highlights a widespread issue that many independent artists face: the ethical grey areas in art licensing, mass production, and corporate behaviour. While copyright law may not have been technically violated, the emotional and reputational impact on artists is significant.

Sophie emphasises that this isn’t just about her work - it's about protecting the creative voice of all artists.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

• Legal vs Ethical: Just because something isn’t illegal doesn’t mean it’s ethically right.
• Power Imbalance: Independent artists often lack the resources to challenge big companies.
• Strategic Creativity: Sophie shares how she planned her transition to full-time art, built passive income through prints, and found support through community.
• Speaking Up Matters: Making the issue public created conversation, support, and awareness.

Final Thoughts

Sophie Corks’ story is a reminder that artists are not just creatives - they are entrepreneurs, advocates, and protectors of their voice. As creative work becomes more visible online, these conversations become more urgent.

Whether you’re just starting out or years into your art career, this episode is a must-listen for learning how to navigate the ethical side of creative business.

Listen now: When a Big Brand Echoes Sophie Corks’ Style — Episode 107 of Paint Rest Repeat.

FAQs re: Creative Ethics and Power Imbalance

Did the retailer break copyright law?

No. According to the retailer’s own review, the artworks were different enough not to constitute copyright infringement. The artists involved have framed this as an ethical and power-imbalance issue rather than a legal one.

What can artists do in situations like this?

Document everything, seek legal advice, and consider going public to raise awareness. Building a strong community can also be crucial for support.

How can I protect my art from being copied?

While no method is foolproof, you can watermark images, limit licensing agreements, register your work when possible, and cultivate a recognisable style. Public awareness also helps.

What are ethical design practices?

Ethical design includes crediting sources of inspiration, offering collaborations, and avoiding derivative works that exploit the original style of independent artists without consent.

Where can I listen to the full episode?

Search Paint Rest Repeat Sophie Corks on YouTube or your favourite podcast platform.

Disclaimer: The views and experiences shared in this post reflect those of the guest and are based on publicly available information and personal opinion. No legal wrongdoing is alleged.

In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald, Adairs said it had "reviewed the concerns raised by the artists" and had acted in line with it's legal and ethical standards. "Adairs has not infringed the copyright of any of the artists concerned. Further, and importantly, Adairs is confident our approach reflects ethical design principles and that there’s no reasonable basis for any suggestion that Adairs has not conducted itself ethically.”

If you’re ready for more personalised support in building your art business, there are plenty of ways we can work together — from self-paced courses and practical resources to memberships and masterminds. Reach out here.

That’s it for this episode. I’m so glad we could share this time together. Remember — every small step you take brings you closer to the artist you’re becoming.

Ros x