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Local Artist Replaces AI Mural Amid Criticism

9/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Cristian Roldán Aponte will replace Wintrust Bank's AI-generated mural in Wicker Park with a non-AI design.
Critics on social media say AI art undercuts local artists and jobs, calling it 'AI slop'.
The mural promotes Hope Ignites Chicago, nonprofit focused on youth development.
Wintrust says nonprofits decide mural methods, including AI; the CIC compensated Aponte ethically for his mural design.

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Story summary

Cristian Roldán Aponte will replace Wintrust Bank's AI-generated mural in Wicker Park with a non-AI design.
Critics on social media say AI art undercuts local artists and jobs, calling it 'AI slop'.
The mural promotes Hope Ignites Chicago, nonprofit focused on youth development.
Wintrust says nonprofits decide mural methods, including AI; the CIC compensated Aponte ethically for his mural design.