Semiotic meaning of an image

Semiotics is an investigation into how meaning is created and communicated. It could also be seen as philosophic theory of signs and symbols.  It is something that every artistic person should know about.

For example, an image, which looks absolutely simple to a person, could have much deeper meaning when seen through semiotic perspective.

In the next few lines I am going to try and deconstruct an image through the study of semiotics.The most important things, which could be noticed when first seeing the image, are the use of the color blue and the symbolic meaning of the water.

All colors have their psychological properties. Blue is the color of confidence and responsibility. The color is idealistic and inspires higher ideals. It could also be seen as the color of wisdom and spirit. When looking into the picture there is this quiet and peaceful feeling going into you. It’s again because of the use of the color blue.

While the properties of this single color are so affective and powerful, the meaning of the image could be even better understood when also looking into the significance of the water in it.

Water is a universal symbol of  life and change. Likewise, water can also be the symbol of death. It depends on the type of water - is it fresh or polluted. In this case, when there is the image of the ocean, it is representing life. In many religions water is presented as purifying and cleansing weapon. When not only looking into the water as it is, but looking in it as ocean, there are also a few more things that we should think about. Oceans represent mystery and strength. These are deep waters and there is always this feeling of the unknown when looking into them.

As a conclusion, I may say that even if you think a picture is simply boring, go and have a closer look at it. There is always something hidden that could not be noticed at first sight.

My Philosophic View of Life

During our first Brand Communications lectures we briefly studied about a few philosophers and their theories about the meaning of life. All these major historical figures had provided an answer to the question what meaningful life is for them.

Then, when I was asked about which specific philosopher’s opinion/theory I would support. I was totally confused.

It was so hard to express my own view of life based on other people’s thoughts. I was partly supportive of Heraclitus’ view that everything is changing. I also agreed with Socrates-a person should be constantly questioning. And finally I was ready to agree with Aristotle and his theory of unformed matter. At this time I stopped for a moment and I realized that each person should have his identical view of the things around him.

Back to the question: What is my philosophic view of life? Every human being is born on this planet in order to create or develop something, which will remain after his/her death. We should be remembered with something. It is not mandatory and it is not possible every single person to create a lifetime innovation. A person could also be remembered with his good behaviors and attitude towards everyone around him. We should always be open for helping the others. If you help only one single person or creature in your lifetime, this act actually matters. If a person could say that he/she have done a single good without waiting for something in return, this person could say that he/she have lived a meaningful life.