# Models as Fish 'Propaganda' Shoot Hooks Viewers With Social Commentary By Marissa Brassfield | Published 2009-07-15 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/propaganda-alexander-toropchin References: [behance.net](http://www.behance.net/Gallery/Propaganda/266010) & [barba.ru](http://www.barba.ru/) 'Propaganda' by Alexander Toropchin of BARBA is an incredible illusory photo shoot that turns models into [fish on a giant hook](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fly-fisher). The hook in question within Alexander Toropchin's 'Propaganda' shoot is comprised of rolled-up pieces of newspaper--a fitting medium considering the title of the collection. Check out some other social commentary features below. **Implications** - Art can be enjoyed for aesthetic reasons, or it can be appreciated for its social commentary. Using a hook that appears to go through his subject's head, Toropchin seems to makes the point that society is being "caught" -- or "hooked" into propaganda. Such commentary also alludes to the [consumer as a victim](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/coachtopia-1) of technology, consumerism and other modern societal developments. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.9/10 - Popularity: 2% | Activity: 18% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Modern](https://www.trendhunter.com/modern) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Social Commentary in Art:** Artistic expressions that use social commentary to convey deeper messages have the potential to captivate and engage viewers. - **Visual Illusions in Photography:** Using visual illusions in photography can create captivating and thought-provoking images that challenge viewers' perceptions. - **Symbolism in Art:** The use of symbolic elements in art can create powerful visual representations that prompt viewers to think critically about societal issues. ### Who This Affects Most - **Photography:** Incorporating visual illusions and symbolism into photography can offer new opportunities for photographers to express powerful and thought-provoking messages. - **Art:** Artists can leverage social commentary and symbolism to create impactful artworks that resonate with viewers and provoke important conversations. - **Media and Advertising:** Exploring the use of social commentary and symbolism in media and advertising can help brands connect with their audience on a deeper level and convey meaningful messages. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Mock Social Good Fashion Ads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/not-models-own.md) - [Provocative Guerrilla Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mwcurated.md) - [Fishing-Inspired Chairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akos-huber.md) - [Unique Artistic Books](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amusebouche.md) - [Art-Centric Retail Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-hook.md) - [Modern Fishing Gear Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fly-fisher.md) - [Disruptive Fashion Art Galleries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dirty-looks.md) - [Color-In Fish Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/summertime-art-box.md) - [Bionic Fishing-Tracking Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bionic-positioning-fish.md)