APOPKA, Fla. – A mural in downtown Apopka that had drawn criticism for its resemblance to another artist’s work was completely painted over Monday morning.

News 6 was there near the corner of Central Avenue and Main Street, near the Domino’s Pizza, where workers covered the mural that was originally unveiled on Aug. 22 as part of the Main Street Apopka Downtown mural project. By mid-morning, the design was fully obscured by fresh paint.

The action followed public complaints and an online backlash after an Iowa artist noted similarities between the Apopka mural and a piece she created in 2017.

[VIDEO: Apopka mural draws backlash over resemblance to another artist’s work]

The Apopka artist credited with the mural, known as Ridge, told the media he worked from inspiration provided to him. He was not available for comment at the site, as his Instagram indicated he was at an undisclosed location working on another painting.

As controversy grew, Apopka’s Main Street Program faced increased scrutiny. In a statement provided to News 6, the City of Apopka said the program was “…aimed to help encourage the revitalization and economic growth of downtown…” and emphasized that “no City of Apopka officials or staff had any involvement in the selection of the art or artist.” The statement added that the city will review the situation with Main Street Apopka.

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The mural’s removal leaves downtown residents and business owners awaiting the outcome of that review and any further action the city or Main Street organizers may take.