In his collection titled "Relics," Texan photographer Cody Hamilton has found an artistic use for many once-popular, but now obsolete items of 80s merchandise.
With a simple coat of white paint, the 1980s retail success stories can now enjoy a short revival, even if only for museum value.
Items included in Hamilton's collection include the Rubik's Cube, Atari 2600, Magnavox Stereo, the "brick" cell phone, a Casio calculator wrist watch, RayBan sunglasses, a VHS Video Casette, a ViewMaster 3-D, and of course, Mr. Stay Puft.
Bleached 80s Artifacts
Cody Hamilton Whitens & Preserves 1980s Items
Trend Themes
1. Retro Revival - The trend of repurposing and preserving obsolete 80s items through artistic whitening opens up opportunities for creating niche museums and specialty retail experiences.
2. Nostalgia Marketing - Brands can tap into the emotional attachment people have towards 80s artifacts by incorporating retro-inspired designs or launching limited-edition throwback products.
3. Cultural Preservation - The preservation of 80s artifacts fosters cultural appreciation and encourages further exploration of past eras, creating opportunities for engaging exhibitions and educational platforms.
Industry Implications
1. Art Restoration - The process of whitening and preserving 80s artifacts presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for art restoration services, catering to a niche market of vintage enthusiasts.
2. Museum and Exhibition - The growth of interest in repurposed 80s items allows for the creation of specialized museums and exhibitions that provide an immersive experience showcasing the nostalgia of the era.
3. Licensing and Merchandising - With the renewed popularity of 80s artifacts, licensing and merchandising opportunities arise for brands to collaborate on limited-edition collections inspired by iconic 80s items.