Semiotics is the study of signs; their meaning, significance and purpose. In day to day life we are bombarded with images (or signs) that may order, direct or explain without the use of much text or none at all. In a society where advertising is constantly surrounding us we have learnt to connect certain feelings, emotions, and desires with the use of specific visuals (often subconsciously). Advertisers can use this to create catchier shorter methods of passing information to the consumer. It also allows for them to catch their target market quickly and efficiently.
Not all semiotics are linked so directly to advertising. Colour is a good example of the use of semiology. For example blue representing cold and red as hot is found on almost all taps internationally. Road signs are also designed to communicate without the need for text or lengthy explanation. Drivers quickly become accustomed to road signage.
Of course it could be that a semiotic technique used in one country could change or loose meaning (importance) in another for example the use of a particular colour as bad or dangerous. However through our ever more connected world most common signs (green man crossings, buttons on electrical equipment) can be used across the world, allowing for better trade and improved communication between cultures.
References
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/S4B/sem02.html
Mythologies - Roland Barthes
http://www.isisemiotics.fi/
13 May 2009
12 May 2009
Gilbert and George
Gilbert and George are unique contemporary artists with a distinctive style.
I have always liked the atheistic appearance of their work. The vivid bold colours used in their large scale pictures are particularly striking. Producing pictures that are made up of large black lined frames or cells placed together (there is a stained glass effect) they bear a resemblance to church windows. Gilbert and George have always said they do not believe in religion, but religious ideas and taboos are a common part of their work. They tackle social subject matters, through their belief that art should be for everyone. This has sometimes been interpreted in a very negative way, for example the work ‘Paki’ has been said to glamourise skinhead culture.
I have always liked the atheistic appearance of their work. The vivid bold colours used in their large scale pictures are particularly striking. Producing pictures that are made up of large black lined frames or cells placed together (there is a stained glass effect) they bear a resemblance to church windows. Gilbert and George have always said they do not believe in religion, but religious ideas and taboos are a common part of their work. They tackle social subject matters, through their belief that art should be for everyone. This has sometimes been interpreted in a very negative way, for example the work ‘Paki’ has been said to glamourise skinhead culture.
Their work is clearly very personal. They do not appear to hold back their thoughts and feelings in terms of expression, the work can be very explicit which of course will create controversy. They have used urine, semen and excrement for pieces of work. My opinions on this are similar to those on Toscani and the issues of using shock to create attention and whether it is necessary. Personally I think their work is amusing rude and clever.
References
Evening Standard - Monday 11th May 09
10 May 2009
Ray Gun (magazine)
Raygun was an alternative rock roll magazine that was first published in 1992. The magazine was markedly set apart from others of the time and still today (despite experimental design seen more often) the designs are unique, have remained popular and are being discovered by a new generation.
Whilst researching Raygun I was drawn to the recognisable and distinct cover design. They can, at first glance, appear jumbled cluttered and often illegible however there is amazing talent in the way the have been composed, the typography is particularly beautiful with the use of experimental abstract fonts and wording.
David Carson was art director of Ray Gun, his non traditional approach to graphic design was a perfect match for Raygun style. Many of the covers have surreal feel to them with an article starting on the cover or interviews that were purposely covered by a photograph.
Raygun did not only have cutting edge design but also featured many bands and music artists that had not yet been recognised by other big magazines such as Rolling Stones.
Whilst researching Raygun I was drawn to the recognisable and distinct cover design. They can, at first glance, appear jumbled cluttered and often illegible however there is amazing talent in the way the have been composed, the typography is particularly beautiful with the use of experimental abstract fonts and wording.
David Carson was art director of Ray Gun, his non traditional approach to graphic design was a perfect match for Raygun style. Many of the covers have surreal feel to them with an article starting on the cover or interviews that were purposely covered by a photograph.
Raygun did not only have cutting edge design but also featured many bands and music artists that had not yet been recognised by other big magazines such as Rolling Stones.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Gun_(magazine)
Ray Gun, Out of control - Marvin Scott Jarrett and Dean Kuipers
http://www.chris-ashworth.com/ray-gun-publish/ray-gun-magazine-covers/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Gun_(magazine)
Ray Gun, Out of control - Marvin Scott Jarrett and Dean Kuipers
http://www.chris-ashworth.com/ray-gun-publish/ray-gun-magazine-covers/
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