Generative artificial intelligence is increasingly taking the place of traditional design software, Canva templates, and local graphic designers in Rockford’s social media feeds, as small businesses look for affordable and instant ways to create promotional materials.
However, the growing use of AI-generated flyers has triggered a heated discussion about ethical concerns, originality, and the importance of human creativity in graphic design.
Rob and Crystal Bennick, who own Backyard Grill and Bar in Loves Park, use AI tools to turn food photographs into colourful promotional designs within minutes. For a local restaurant operating on tight profit margins, the choice is largely driven by time and cost.
“I’m sure there’s a lot of great local artists that would probably do wonderful things,” Rob Bennick said. “But honest to God, it’s like, do I stop what I’m doing to find the time to start looking for these artists? Or do I spend $20 a month on something that I have in my pocket… just that fast?”
While business owners appreciate the convenience of AI, artists are raising concerns about its impact on the creative industry. Jacob Polhill, an artist and designer from Rockford, understands the financial challenges faced by small businesses but believes AI-generated flyers often lack the qualities that define genuine creativity.
“They’re not good,” Polhill said. “Sometimes things don’t need to be optimized. And they can just have a little bit of room to breathe.”
Instead of criticising local businesses on social media, Polhill encourages emerging digital designers to focus on building stronger relationships with business owners. He recommends offering affordable design templates and ongoing service packages that meet the needs and budgets of local shops.
Chris Sisson, chair of the art department at Rockford University, sees the rise of AI as part of the natural evolution of technology. He points out that earlier innovations, including wood type, offset printing, and Photoshop, were also once considered serious threats to traditional creative professionals.
Sisson emphasises that effective design involves human thinking, creativity, and problem-solving — qualities that AI’s ability to recognise patterns cannot fully reproduce.
“AI recognizes patterns and it learns how to use images,” Sisson said. “The most important thing is that AI does not make something original, it does not make something tactile, and it does not create experiences. And that’s what the human artists can do. That can’t be replaced.”
Source: RNF
