Sign and Symbolic Systems as Cultural Codes: Recognition and Interaction of Symbols

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to reveal the patterns of pictorial coding and the formation of symbolic images and visual systems based on them in propaganda graphics during the war between russia and Ukraine. Research methods. The methodology of the research is based on semantic and structural art analysis. The scientific novelty of the research is the reflecting of the spectrum of iconic and symbolic images, which represent the accuracy of coding socio-historical events and the clarity of their fixation in visual communications; and also – detection of differentiation of standard and innovative signs and symbols. Conclusions. In the considered poster projects, the most characteristic forms of image-visual coding of information are highlighted; there are established "traditional", "innovative" and "situational" symbolic forms, and the conditions of their interaction to ensure the quality of the communicative process are defined. Thus, the campaign graphics of KNUKiM students reveals appealing to the treasure trove of already established forms of conventional signs-indexes and conventional symbols, as well as its enrichment with new symbols. Violent and rapidly changing social events and the need for their wide discussion in society lead to the formation of both new visual word images and their "word combinations" and linguistic interpretations. Simultaneously, visual symbols are updated, containing layers of information that are much larger and more meaningful than the initial interpretation of each individual symbol. At the same time, the combined use of various symbols and the leveling of the unification of visual stylistics lead to unexpected and not always expected by the authors results of the "decoding" graphic appeals. In view of the mentioned problem, it is urgent and necessary to focus the attention of scientists on the in-depth and more detailed illumination of symbols and stylistic ways of their display, which are currently being formed and spread in the information environment.