I am really unsure why you're "undermining the work of many" here. Is there a gatekeep in deskmat design that says we have to draw the art ourselves? I've seen lots of mats based on the great wave, or other iconic art pieces. I love sakura themed mats, but haven't found one that I really liked, and/or just wasn't active when it was being sold.
You took a stock image, paid for it, bordered it and overlayed other art. I am confused how this is an issue. On top of that, you took the time to create many different color designs.
Nothing is being stolen. Nothing is being ripped off even. I would like to hear more about the issues. I think you put work into this, I like what you've done, and personally don't see any problem. It's not easy finding a deskmat that I can just say, "That's one I know I want". There are so many designs, and most of them won't appeal to everyone.
I'd like to hear/see any discussion, criticisms and whatnot, if there's a thread where that's happening, feel free to point me in that direction.
Good luck, and hopefully your time and money investment isn't for nothing.
Edit: I reread, and yes, the community values originality. Every single group-buy, every single new design just narrows the potential originality remaining though. Sakura themed mats have been unoriginal for a while at this point, but they are still very popular, and iconic. I'm all for more options, and inclusivity here. There may be lots of important factors that I'm not considering, and I absolutely agree that there are more ethical, or less ethical ways to go about doing things. If you were reached out to by many of the community members via DM, or some people whose input you value, then it's worth noting and reconsidering where you're at. Read other ICs though. There usually is some criticism, and I think that's a good thing. Don't let one person's opinion gatekeep you from creating something meaningful to you (and sharing that with others).
