If you’re wondering what counts as copyright infringement or how to protect your art online, the story of Elon Musk and a Colorado potter’s farting unicorn design is a revealing case study. It highlights how even world-famous companies can misuse original work—and what artists and creatives can do when it happens.
In February 2017, Elon Musk tweeted a photo of a whimsical mug created by Colorado potter Tom Edwards. The design featured a unicorn farting electricity—a humorous and distinctive image. Musk called it his “favorite mug ever,” and the tweet quickly boosted the mug’s sales.
However, not long after, Musk shared another post showing a nearly identical unicorn image drawn on a Tesla sketch pad. Tesla later incorporated the artwork into its car operating system icons and even used it in holiday cards. All of this happened without Mr. Edwards’ permission, credit, or compensation.
When Edwards and his daughter publicly objected, Musk responded dismissively, tweeting, “He can sue for money if he wants, but that’s kinda lame. If anything, this attention increased his mug sales.”
Edwards did ultimately hire an attorney, not primarily to seek money, but to take a stand for artists who face similar treatment. Despite the public tension, Musk eventually reached a private settlement with Edwards.
This real-life incident underscores two critical points for artists and creators:
1. Copyright infringement doesn’t require financial harm. Even though Musk’s tweets brought attention to Edwards’ mugs, Tesla still used copyrighted art without permission. Infringement is about unauthorized use—not whether exposure helped sales.
2. Creators can fight back—and often win. Many small creators assume they can’t afford to take on a large company. But today, more IP attorneys offer contingency or flat-fee models to help artists protect their work. In many cases, a well-drafted cease and desist letter is enough to resolve the issue without litigation.
In an age when social media makes art more visible, and more vulnerable, to copying, artists need to know their rights and their options. If you discover your artwork being used without your consent, don’t assume you’re powerless. Legal tools exist, and you may have more leverage than you think.
Have questions about your copyrights?
Contact Stemer Law | hello@stemerlaw.com | (303) 928-1094 | Based in Colorado | Serving clients nationwide and internationally
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