Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Design that Encompasses Representational, Abstraction, and Symbolism

This amazing clock was designed by London artists
Will Aspinall and Neil Lambeth, (http://thespiralclock.com/)


Representational

- It is a representational form of a clock people are able to recognize this by the overall shape
- The viewer is able to tell time in an interesting fashion
- The representation of the clock is tied into the abstraction piece because it is a way of looking at time that is unconventional. The representation works together with the symbolism of the numbers and the maze-like structure to create a compelling yet familiar product.

Abstract

- The abstraction is really what makes this clock visually compelling. I have never seen a clock that used a maze as a way of telling time. It sort of reminds me of sundials but in a more new age fashion.
-I think its a great way of drawing viewers in. I was curious as to how it would reset back to twelve which is actually pretty fascinating since the ball drops back down after it reaches 11:59. Great design.
- The abstraction makes the representation of time more compelling I would say. It gives it a new meaning while still being consistent in symbolizing what many would recognize as the functions of a clock.

Symbolic

- The clock is a symbol of time and the way it which it slowly keeps moving.
- For the viewers I believe it say that time keeping can still be done in unconventional ways yet be recognizable through the symbols of the twelve numbers around a circle. When I see numbers 1-12 (or intervals) I automatically think "time" due to cultural references.
- The symbolism of time is prevalent throughout the entire design. It is represented by having the traditional timekeeping functions of the clock and abstracted through the ball and maze.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Meanings in Representation, Abstraction and Symbolism

Representation


This is a representation of the Dark Knight himself. It is an easily discernible representation as it showcases the hero in his well-known black and grey bat suit. He is standing over Gotham City, the urban area he has sworn to protect. This image is a clear depiction of Batman that viewers are able to recognize instantly. Any better representation, you'd hear the Joker's signature laugh in the background.

Abstraction


This is an abstract representation of Flash. Flash is known in the superhero world as the fastest man on the planet and this image is a reduction from the detail of a representation. It just gives the pure essence of Flash. In the abstraction, it focuses on Flash's legs and the speed-trail colorfully flying behind him. The piece focuses on color, shape and direction. It does a great job of giving a sense of movement and purpose.

Symbolism


This is a symbol for one of the greatest superhero's of all time; Superman. It is also known as one of the most world famous symbols. The symbol visualizes an S in a shield to bring symbolism to the Man of Steel. The colors are typically seen as a gold and crimson red and the overall symbol remains very simple even throughout its years of evolution. There is no discerning this symbol from Superman, as it has become a well-solidified pop culture reference. The "Super S" is linked to our memory of who he is, as the hero of Metropolis.