Café Kino has banned AI-generated posters, while Zed Alley bars AI artwork from its social media channels; the University of Bristol Students’ Union passed a motion banning AI art at its poster sale, but said it held no sale this Welcome Week.
Student Ruby Saunders said she led the motion after buying a poster she later realised was AI-designed. She raised concerns about artists’ work being used without credit or pay and AI’s environmental impact. The union said Student Council passed the motion in term 1 of the 2025/26 academic year.
Zed Alley manager Chris Illingworth cited ethical concerns and a lack of originality, saying customers responded overwhelmingly positively and AI posters performed poorly on social media. The Jolly Collier pub removed an AI-based mural after community members called it disrespectful; owner Punch Pubs & Co said it was temporary and it would work with artists to replace it soon. Graffiti artist Zase said he was not bothered by others using AI, though he said it threatened jobs.
