Hot off the grill, another cheesy internet challenge. This time, folks are using generative AI to produce images of themselves or friends as action figures, and as always, when there's a social media trend, zoos can be counted to follow. This time, however, they ran into some pushback. Not only is AI controversial due to its usurping/undermining human artists, it's also surprisingly bad for the environment, using a lot of energy, which a conservation organization such as a zoo should be aware of.
In an effort to use the trend to raise awareness of this, while still having a good time, some zoos have posted their action figures, but illustrated by members of the staff, instead. Some have even taken the admirable step of linking the image with the profile of the creator - many zookeepers and aquarists have second jobs or side gigs, including several who are also freelance artists. Check out these handmade starter packs, one from Roger Williams Park Zoo (check out the artist on instagram at @hollymaedesigns) and one from Lincoln Park Zoo.
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