PORTLAND, Ore. — Powell’s Books, Portland’s iconic independent bookstore, found itself at the center of controversy this weekend after customers and employees raised concerns that some of its merchandise featured artwork generated with the help of artificial intelligence (AI).
Unnatural Designs Spark Debate
The uproar began after shoppers noticed new Powell’s merchandise featuring images of wolves and cats. Many felt the designs appeared “unnatural” and suspected they had been created using AI tools.
Discussions on Facebook and Reddit quickly spread, with customers criticizing the company for embracing technology that, in their view, undermines human artistry. For a store that has long represented Portland’s creative spirit, the choice struck some as contradictory.
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Union Raises Concerns
The criticism gained momentum after ILWU Local 5, the union representing many Powell’s employees, weighed in publicly.
“Powell’s workers have been voicing concerns about the use of AI in these designs for months and company leadership has been unmoved,” the union wrote in a Facebook post. “Maybe feedback from customers and book industry peers will move them?”
The post amplified frustration among supporters of the store, many of whom see Powell’s as not just a retailer but a cultural landmark rooted in human creativity.
Powell’s Issues a Response
In response to the mounting backlash, Powell’s released a statement on Saturday addressing the concerns.
“We want to acknowledge the concern around the designs of our recent merch,” the statement read. “The designs were created by a local artist using Adobe tools, which now include some AI-assisted features.
We value the work of human artists and designers, and we remain committed to keeping Powell’s designs rooted in creativity and imagination.”
The bookstore also announced plans to collaborate more directly with community members, inviting local artists to submit design ideas for upcoming seasonal merchandise.
“We’re already working on new apparel for the holidays and spring,” Powell’s added. “If you’re an artist who’d like to work with us, please email design@powells.com. Thank you for your passion and for helping keep Powell’s independent.”
A Broader Debate on AI in Art
The controversy at Powell’s reflects a wider conversation happening in creative industries across the country. From publishing to music to visual art, AI-assisted tools are increasingly accessible — and increasingly controversial.
Critics argue that AI-generated work can mimic existing artists without proper credit or compensation, raising ethical questions about originality and labor. Supporters, however, view AI as a tool that can enhance creativity when used responsibly.
In Powell’s case, the fact that the artwork came from a local artist using Adobe’s AI features highlights the blurry lines between traditional and AI-assisted design. For many, that nuance did little to ease concerns.
Community and Cultural Impact
Powell’s Books has long been more than a bookstore for Portland residents. It is a cultural hub, a tourist destination, and a symbol of independent business in a changing retail landscape.
For critics, the AI controversy felt like a departure from those values. Online commenters expressed disappointment, saying they expected Powell’s to stand firmly behind human artists. Others encouraged patience, pointing out that the store acknowledged the concerns and appears willing to adapt.
Looking Ahead
As Powell’s prepares new merchandise for the holiday season and beyond, its handling of the issue may shape how the community perceives its commitment to artists and authenticity.
The store’s invitation for local creators to participate suggests it is taking steps to rebuild trust while navigating the realities of modern design tools.
For now, Powell’s remains a beloved institution, but the incident underscores how even trusted cultural landmarks are not immune from the challenges posed by emerging technologies.
