Visual vs Symbolic Language

 

 

 

In this particular image, there is an aged military worn-out cap, which is in light brown color. The cover of the cap was probably made of hard leather. A golden badge is attached to the front of the cap. In addition, there is a couple of star badges with ribbon placed next to the military cap. Both the cap and the star badges are sitting on an American Flag, which becomes the background of the entire image. An American veteran in full uniform could be used as a replacement for this image.

• Proud
• Sacrificial
• Honorable
• Impressive
• Unforgettable
• Suffering
• Peaceful

• American Flag = Freedom
• Military cap = War
• Star badge with ribbon = Military honor

By seeing an image that has a combination of an American flag, a military cap and a star badge, American will immediately relate these three elements to our honorable veterans.

As an American, we should be thankful to those active duty military and returned veterans for their sacrifices that they and their families have made to make our country secure and peaceful. We should never ever forget what they have suffered and done for our country. In addition, all the veterans should be proud of themselves for their contribution.

 

Meaning 2: Interactions Between the 3 Levels of Meaning

 

 

Representational

By looking this painting as a whole, we can see that the gigantic watch, which is sitting on the beach, is the focal point of this piece of art. Watch is a representational object that people have seen and recognized from their daily life. A (detailed) realistic watch with an unusually size appears in a picture will definitely draw viewers' attention and curiosity. Viewers may doubt whether the picture is real. By leading viewers to think and guess, this painting will leave a deep impression on viewers’ mind and catch their interest to investigate into it more.

 
 

Abstract

 

In addition, other than representational, this painting also purposely utilized abstract level. As I mentioned, the irregular size of watch is an abstraction.  Even though the details of the watch are not minimized or deleted, the size of the watch itself is intentionally isolated and exaggerated. By showing a watch that is painting realistically, but  in abstract size , viewers will be confused. This allows viewers to have plenty of space for imagination and questions about the painting and for the artist.

 

  

 Symbol

 

Furthermore, by observing deeply into the two watch hands on the watch face, we can discover that having the watch hands at 10:10 is a recognizable symbol for every advertisement of watch brand. Watch companies tend to put their brand name above the center of the watch. By displaying both watch hands at 10:10 around the brand, the brand will be famed and not blocked by the hands. Hence, viewers will draw attention to the brand name.

Besides, the seven (or eight) sea gulls also symbolize the watch hands in this painting. The “V” shape flying posture of the sea gulls appears to denote the 10:10 position of the hands on watch’s face.  This creates an illusion to viewers and makes the entire painting more interesting and aesthetic!

 

Meaning 1 - Blog Exercise

Representational

 

Jellyfish Light Fixture by Markus Johansson

 

This Jellyfish Light Fixture by Markus Johansson is an excellent example of representational. Since "the more representational, the more specific," Johansson decided to choose jelly fish other than millions others sea creatures in his light design. This makes his design representational.

As I mentioned, this lamp is created as a recognizable form of a sea creature: Jellyfish. Utilizing representational Jellyfish form as a light cover to create a functional piece of furniture is a very brilliant idea. The remarkable outline of the Jellyfish is emphasized by the reflections and shadows of light. The beauty of line is well-defined in this piece of design. While the form of Jellyfish is an aesthetic feast for the viewers, it is a practical furniture that actually has functional purpose.




Abstract

Commission wedding portrait - "Tribal love" 

 

 

The above colorful acrylic painting: “Tribal love” is a perfect example of abstraction. Since this painting is basically abstracting two representational human’s portrait, this piece of art is categorized into function-based / objective abstraction. It is an abstract form that derives from the object’s function. In this piece of abstraction, the wedding couple’s portrait is the subject. The outlines of their face and facial gesture are converted into different color of shapes to create a more direct and emotional feelings to viewers.

 

In addition, some visual elements, such as colors (red, orange, yellow and blue) and the irregular shapes that are utilized in the painting provide a direct connection to our visual perception. This allows viewers easily memorize this painting, at the same time, make an intense impact on viewers.




Symbol

Universial Recycling symbol

 

 

 

This Universal Recycle symbol is an example of symbolism. It could be found everywhere in San Francisco, where is claiming “the highest recycling rate of any city in the US,” according to office of San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. It is an international recognizable symbol that usually signifies: green, reuse, reduce and recycle. Officially, this symbol indicates that an object is capable of being recycled.

Although some basic knowledge may be required to understand this recycling symbol, it is a straight-forward symbol that can easily be recognized. By observing the three arrows that are twisted from a circular pattern, viewers can immediately relate it to the meaning of “recycle”.

Furthermore, the dominant green color of the symbol indicates the energy of green, renewal and nature environment. Therefore, the universal recycling symbol has been a very successful logo that denotes the concept of recycle to people.