Iconology:
/ One of the things that came up when we were looking at semiotics was how metaphor is used in visual communication – which leads nicely into this session on Iconology.
/ Where we were looking last week at different theories which claim to explain how words and images communicate meaning (how we translate words and images into meanings through a shared knowledge of coded systems), today we’re looking at how broader meanings, and different nuances of meaning, can be communicated within these signifying systems. Iconology is about how we use individual – as well as collective – understandings and interpretations to seek a depth of meaning and nuances of meaning beyond that first level of semiotic communication. So, where Semiotics tells us that the phonemes (‘codes’) ‘r’ ‘e’ ‘d’ make up a bigger word (‘code’) ‘red’ which we have learned to associate with the colour we all think of when we hear the word ‘red’, iconology delves into the symbolic, cultural and, at times, idiosyncratic meanings associated with ‘red’. In this session we’ll consider what is being communicated within the context of particular examples of visual communication, and how, as interpreters and creators of graphic design/art/animation, we can play with that ‘gap’ between reading and interpretation (between the page/screen and its audience) to creative effect.
/ The study of meaning contained within in a particular work of art or design, and the branch of art history that addresses the description, analysis and interpretation of images.
Meanings are not always immediately obvious - this can enhance their impact.
Historical and theoretical context - Erwin Panofsky - iconologist - Studies in Iconology (1939).
Using visual evidence to 'unlock' meaning.
Iconology:
/ Iconology is the study of the meaning contained within the symbols in a particular work of art.
/ Culturally specific. It examines the symbol on more than its face value and tries to find meaning by reconciling it with its historical context. To find out about the ORIGINS, purpose and meaning of something.
/ Culturally specific. It examines the symbol on more than its face value and tries to find meaning by reconciling it with its historical context. To find out about the ORIGINS, purpose and meaning of something.
/ Looking as opposed to just seeing.
/ Metaphor - where meaning is derived through association, comparison or resemblance.
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