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.