You click on what appears to be a single logo, but it was built from multiple paths (e.g., a star inside a circle). Even if they are grouped, many filters require a single path or compound shape . Ungrouping doesn't always solve it—you may need to use a (Object > Compound Path > Make) to fuse them into one selectable unit.
Note: This works for effects (non-destructive), but not for filters under the Filter menu (legacy destructive filters). You click on what appears to be a
To truly understand the error, consider this analogy: Asking a filter to work on two separate objects is like asking a chef to cook two different meals in the same pot at the same time without mixing them. It’s technically possible, but the result will be messy. Note: This works for effects (non-destructive), but not