Design Principles - TASK 2 : Visual Analysis

 February 19, 2024

19/2/2024 - 6/3/2024 ( Week 3 - Week5  ) 

Qian Guoyi / 0369462

Design Principles / Bachelor's of Design Honors In Creative Media

TASK 2 : Visual Analysis

INSTRUCTIONS

Submission Requirement :

1. Recap Task 2 brief

2. Write a 300- to 350-word visual analysis of the selected design (refer to Visual Analysis lecture notes and guide).

3. Include reference links where applicable.

Visual Analysis

-Phase 1: Observation

The design focuses on a central factory chimney emitting fumes, flanked by other buildings. A burning red flame contrasts with the upper-right red background. In the upper-left, diverse sharp graphics include a woman on a blue triangle with an Earth logo and the number 1. Adjacent, a yellow figure with floral patterns, and a hand holding a burning plate in a red triangle. Key colors: red, light blue, dark blue, yellow, black. Overall, rich colors, varied shapes, and a powerful impression characterize the work.（84 words）

-Phase 2: Analysis

This design work mainly emphasizes the main element of pollution emitted by factory chimneys. A chimney is repeated, arranged one high and one low, and the angle of looking up is used to bring the focus to this main object, further highlighting the main object and the theme of energy pollution. The smoke emitted from the chimney is floating (moving), and the color and texture contrasts are also done to show that the smoke is polluting. The angular strength of the factory building in the lower right corner combined with the graphic elements gives the entire picture a tough and solid feel. The background color behind the factory chimney uses red and blue contrast and black texture as a gradient to show the air pollution caused by fossil fuel exhaust.  The symbol of woman, the earth, and the number 1 above it in the blue inverted triangle in the upper left corner symbolizes the view of "first in the world". There is also a proportional layout in this design that creates a sense of hierarchy ——
the arrangement of one high and one low factory chimney, the main element factory chimney and the flame element in the upper left corner, the "first in the world" element and other small elements.（209 words）                         

-Phase 3: Interpretation

Shepard Fairey's 2022 artwork urges environmental protection and energy awareness, aligning with UN SDG 7. Fairey, known for street art, uses red, yellow, blue, and black to convey political, global, and environmental messages. Using vibrant colors，his works typically employ bright colors to attract audience attention and enhance visual impact.Proceeds from the painting's sale support Greenpeace. Fairey advocates for clean, renewable energy amidst environmental challenges, drawing inspiration from past protests like Vietnam War demonstrations.I noticed that his street art also has some other characteristics, such as the repetition of patterns and symbols, inspiration, and encouragement, as well as displaying in public spaces.

Refer to: https://www.instagram.com/p/C3VlQrUpT4q/?img_index=1

Feedback

Week4：

In the fourth week, we continue to complete the Visual Analysis for TASK2. I showed Mr. Zeon the Visual Analysis I wrote about the artwork I selected. Mr. Zeon suggested that I shorten the content of the three paragraphs and keep the word count around 350 words. He believed that the Analysis in the second paragraph was too lengthy and suggested deleting the part about colors while bolding the design principles. Additionally, he recommended adding a section for further reading

Reflection

Experience:

Studying Visual Analysis has been an enlightening journey, exposing me to the intricate layers of meaning embedded within artworks. Initially, I approached the task with curiosity, eager to explore the visual language artists use to convey their ideas. Through guided exercises and independent exploration, I honed my analytical skills and perception of visual elements.

Observation:

I learned the importance of keen observation and attention to detail. Each artwork presented a unique narrative through colors, lines, shapes, and textures. By closely examining these elements, I uncovered hidden symbolism, cultural references, and emotional undertones. Each artistic movement offered its distinct visual language, inviting interpretation.

Findings:

One significant discovery is the interconnectedness between form and content. Every artistic choice contributes to the artwork's message and aesthetic impact. For instance, warm hues evoke passion, while cool tones create calm. The arrangement of shapes and lines guides emotional responses.Context is crucial in interpreting visual art. Historical, cultural, and social contexts profoundly influence interpretation. By contextualizing artworks, I gained a deeper understanding of artists' intentions and broader socio-political forces.

In conclusion, studying Visual Analysis deepened my appreciation for visual art's complexities. Sharpening observation skills and contextualizing artworks enriched my understanding. I look forward to further exploring visual culture.

Further Reading

This past two weeks I read "Visual Intelligence: Perception, Image, and Manipulation in Visual Communication" covers several aspects of visual communication. Readers can learn the following from this book

1. 1. Visual Perception: The book may cover how the human visual system perceives and understands images. This could include an introduction to the psychological principles of visual perception, cognitive processes, and mechanisms of perception. 2. Creation and Transmission of Images: The book may discuss the creation, editing, and transmission processes of images, as well as how images are used to effectively convey information, trigger emotions, and provoke behavioral responses. 3.Manipulation and Influence of Images: It may explore how images are used to manipulate and influence audience thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This could involve case studies and research on advertising, political propaganda, media manipulation, and more. 4. Social and Cultural Impacts of Visual Communication: The author may also discuss the social and cultural impacts of visual communication, as well as differences in the interpretation and understanding of images across different cultural and social contexts.
   

   

   

   
   

   

   In summary, "Visual Intelligence: Perception, Image, and Manipulation in Visual Communication" provides an in-depth exploration of various aspects involved in visual communication, aiming to help readers better understand and interpret the importance and influence of visual images in our daily lives.