British model left 'angry' after Spanish government use her image without permission in body positivity campaign
Nyome Nicholas-Williams told Sky News that she was "shocked" when she saw her picture on the poster for the campaign, which features images of women of different shapes and sizes on the beach.
Friday 29 July 2022 15:07, UK
A British model says she is "angry" and "frustrated" after her image was used without permission by the Spanish government in a body positivity campaign.
The equality ministry's advert has received praise for featuring diverse women of different shapes and sizes on the beach.
However, Nyome Nicholas-Williams, from London, said the picture of her used in the campaign was taken from her Instagram profile without her permission.
The 30-year-old said the artist behind the image has apologised and told her she will be paid, but she has not heard from the Spanish government.
"I was shocked and saddened because it has happened to me before, and I was angry because the lack of awareness is staggering," she told Sky News.
"I was very annoyed. It is frustrating because my agency work hard to make sure my image use is done properly, the fact they've not paid is frustrating.
"I have been told the government spent thousands on the campaign."
She added that she would have "loved to" take part in the campaign "because of what they are promoting".
"It's a great campaign and poor execution."
Sky News has contacted the Spanish government for comment.
'A bit of a loophole'
The campaign was launched earlier this week by Spain's equality ministry and the Institute of Women, aimed at encouraging women worried about their appearance to go to the beach.
"Summer is ours too," reads the slogan with an image of five women.
"Enjoy it how, where and with whomever you want. Today we toast to a summer for all, without stereotypes and without aesthetic violence against our bodies."
In the picture, Ms Nicolas-Williams is wearing a gold bikini and is sitting on the sand with her head turned towards the camera.
She was alerted to the campaign by a friend, and she posted about its use on her Instagram story.
The model said her images have been used without permission before, in 2020, when a US illustrator used her photos on tote bags and mugs.
"People would never take an image without permission from a photographer because they know they have to pay, but it's a bit of a loophole," she said.