# Cassette Tape Paintings Iri5's 'Ghost in the Machine' Series Depicts Famous Media Icons By Marissa Brassfield | Published 2009-03-23 | Pop Culture Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/iri5-ghost-in-the-machine References: [neatorama](http://www.neatorama.com/2009/03/21/cassette-tape-paintings/) & [flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/iri5/sets/72157611954107572/) 'Ghost in the Machine' is an incredible Flickr set from user Iri5, who has used [cassette tapes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/we001-edith) and film reels to create haunting portraits of [famous media icons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gap-1). The gallery above is kicked off with Jimi Hendrix; Jim Morrison, Ian Brown and Marilyn Monroe are also honored in Iri5's 'Ghost in the Machine' series. **Implications** - Artwork like this captivates people because unexpected materials have been used to evoke culturally familiar imagery. Advertisers could definitely take advantage of ideas like this when they are hungry for a way to reach audiences. There is definitely something to be said for defying expectation, and [upcycled art](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/back-to-basics-ii) definitely falls in that category for sure. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 76% | Activity: 57% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Pop Culture](https://www.trendhunter.com/popculture) > [Media](https://www.trendhunter.com/media) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Upcycled Art:** Exploring the use of unexpected materials in artwork to captivate audiences and evoke culturally familiar imagery. - **Unconventional Advertising:** Utilizing unexpected and unique artistic techniques to reach and engage audiences in advertising campaigns. - **Defying Expectations:** Embracing the element of surprise and defying traditional artistic norms to create memorable and impactful experiences. ### Where This Applies - **Art and Design:** Opportunities for artists and designers to experiment with unconventional materials and techniques, creating innovative and compelling artwork. - **Advertising and Marketing:** Potential for advertisers and marketers to push the boundaries of traditional advertising methods and incorporate unique and unexpected artistic concepts in campaigns. - **Film and Entertainment:** Exploring the integration of upcycled art techniques in film and entertainment industry, enhancing visual storytelling and creating visually stunning experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Nostalgic Audio Interfaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cassetteone.md) - [Cassette-Inspired Music Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-audio-player.md) - [Pop Band Cassette Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/we001-duran-duran-special-edition.md) - [Retro VHS Tape-Resembling Vase](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vhs-tape.md) - [Cassette-Shaped Sound Machines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/witchcraft-ambient-speakers.md) - [Nostalgic Retro Music Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diy-mixtape-kit.md) - [Musician-Honoring Cassette Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/we001-elvis-presley-limited-edition.md) - [Nostalgic Compact Clear Cassettes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cp81.md) - [Retro Transparent Cassette Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/its-real.md)