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September 27, 2005
Semiotics
To me visual semiotics and iconography are two complex approaches in being able to interpret the meaning of a visual image. I think that it can be difficult at times to use these methods, because some visual images have multiple meanings that are sometimes hard to categorize specifically. So many meanings can be taken up by various individuals depending on their culture and the time period in which the grew up in. These are some of the factors that can influence the perception of any visual image.
I thought that it was interesting how we categorize wealth and a higher status, versus poverty and a lower status. This can be taken from the clothes that someone is wearing, their physical form, their features, and also what possessions they have. This can all be taken from a visual image.
I was not aware that food was so symbolic on many levels. Like in the 1930's is was used to represent the laziness of African-Americans, or it was used at a biblical allusion. This shows that food is a factor in our perception of wealth, social status, and religious references. This is why the media has such influence in people's decision making and thoughts, because they are able to communicate effectively through visual images.
--Yasmin
Posted by lcisperez at September 27, 2005 04:21 PM