Visual Symbols Research Articles

Art design interventions as a catalyst for sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement in intangible cultural heritage

This study explores the transformative role of art design interventions in the sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement of intangible cultural heritage, with a particular focus on honored brands. The research develops a framework that positions aesthetic and interactive art design interventions as pivotal components in revitalizing these brands. Aesthetic interventions translate the brand’s core philosophy, spirit, and values into compelling visual symbols, harmonizing cultural heritage with modern image design to elevate brand reputation and consumer preference. Interactive interventions enhance user experience, particularly among younger demographics, by integrating technological and entertainment-based engagement, thereby strengthening consumer loyalty and brand influence. The study further investigates how these art design interventions serve as catalysts for broader social development, contributing to the modern relevance and societal impact of time-honored brands. Additionally, it examines the impact of these interventions on sustainable development, societal support, and policy alignment. By weaving together these elements, the research underscores the critical importance of aligning brand strategies with societal goals, fostering environments where brands actively contribute to social welfare and sustainable growth. The findings offer valuable theoretical insights and practical strategies for the sustainable development of time-honored brands, providing clear directions for future research and practice.

A Comparative Study of Media Symbols from the Perspective of Visual Grammar: A Case Study of Marine Ecological Protection Posters in China and Western Countries

Social developments are bringing about changes in how we communicate and represent ideas. With the tendency of globalisation, marine ecosystems are facing threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change, and marine ecological protection has become a focus of attention for all countries. This paper adopts Kress and van Leeuwen’s framework of visual grammar analysis to compare and analyse the use of symbols in Chinese and Western marine ecological protection posters from the perspectives of representational meaning, interactive meaning, and compositional meaning. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of 100 Chinese posters and 100 Western posters reveal similarities and differences in symbol selection, cultural context, and compositional approach. Results show that Chinese posters tend to integrate traditional cultural elements and natural symbols to convey the concept of environmental protection in a harmonious and warm way, such as the use of ink painting style and paper-cutting art to represent marine organisms, while Western posters focus on directly displaying the hazards of marine pollution by means of strong visual contrasts and modern design elements to stimulate the audience’s sense of urgency and responsibility, such as the display of marine animals trapped by plastic rubbish. This research not only deepens the understanding of the theory of visual grammar but also provides valuable references for the design of future environmental posters, emphasising the importance of using visual symbols and communication strategies in different cultural contexts in order to convey environmental messages more effectively and to promote the development of global marine conservation.

The invisible community in contemporary China: a visual narrative framework for Chinese lesbian identity

This study employs the photo-elicitation (PE) interview method to explore the social construction of contemporary Chinese lesbian identity. It examines how individuals use visual symbols in their daily lives to construct and express their sexual orientation. The research highlights the diversity and creativity in Chinese lesbian identity expression, while addressing challenges from traditional family values, gender norms, and evolving social attitudes. Introducing the “Visual Narratives of Identity” (VNI) framework, this study bridges the gap between academic research and lived experiences, offering insights into identity expression under social and cultural constraints. The findings emphasize the complex strategies participants use to navigate social expectations and maintain personal authenticity. This study enriches the theoretical landscape of sexual orientation identity in visual culture studies, advocates for methodological diversity, and deepens our understanding of the complexities within Chinese lesbian subcultures.

Tracing Political Implications of the Color Red in China From 1919 to 1976

This study explores the political implications of the color red in China from 1919 to 1976, analyzing its usage and significance within published literature through the lens of historical events and ideological shifts. Utilizing the Google Book Ngram Viewer and Voyant tools, this research traces patterns in the frequency and context of the term "红色" (red) in Chinese texts. The analysis identifies significant peaks in usage corresponding to key historical moments, including the Nanchang Uprising, the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, the establishment of the People's Republic of China, and the Cultural Revolution. The study finds that the color red is uniquely intertwined with political discourse in China, contrasting with other politically charged colors such as black, white, and yellow. Despite the color’s symbolic prominence, its direct references in pivotal political texts like Mao Zedong’s Quotations are relatively sparse, suggesting a complex interplay between visual symbolism and textual representation. The findings highlight the color red’s profound role in reflecting and shaping political ideologies during this transformative period in Chinese history.

A Comparative Study between Chang'an School of Flower-and-Bird Paintings and Western Still Life Paintings

This comparative study examines the stylistic, thematic, and cultural differences between the Chinese Chang'an School of Flower-and-Bird Paintings and Western Still Life Paintings. The analysis of differences in the visual approaches, philosophical underpinnings, and symbolic elements innate in each of the traditions elaborates how these two art forms reflect their cultural contexts. The Chang'an School, strongly attached to Confucian and Taoist thoughts, draws more attention in its balanced, harmonious relation with nature, while Western still life mainly focuses on realism, materiality, and transience in most works of the Renaissance and Baroque. This analysis follows theoretical frameworks such as the Iconology of Panofsky, the Cultural Ecology of Steward, and the Aesthetics of Ye Lang for insight into the cultural and historical philosophical influences on such artistic practices to explore how visual symbolism has communicated cultural values in both traditions through case studies of representative works by Shi Lu, Jiang Wenzhan, Claude Monet, and Henri Fantin-Latour.

Scene Deconstruction and Plot Setting of a Silent Film

This study dissects Chaplin's method of conveying a story through visuals in his 1921 silent movie, 'The Kid,' emphasizing scene analysis and plot introduction. A detailed discussion of sequences allows the research to illustrate how Chaplin makes meaning, creates a narrative, and establishes emotion solely through visual motion without words. The study uses several theoretical approaches, including film semiotics, narrative theory, and visual composition analysis. This paper examines how Chaplin employs framing, editing, mise-en-scène, and physical comedy to construct a highly symbolic and emotionally rich picture. Special emphasis should be placed on how Chaplin uses both comic and dramatic scenes hand in hand, sometimes even in the same scenes. Key sequences analyzed include the opening scene, which efficiently introduces the main character and presents the setting; the separation scene, an emotionally charged sequence of a man being left by his wife; and the dream sequence, a fantastic sequence in which Chaplin breaks the laws of practical reality to develop character psychology and depth of themes. The paper also explores how Chaplin develops visual motifs and employs repeated actions to unify the narrative and chart the character's growth. Moreover, it discusses how the film's visual analysis and symbolism respond to early twentieth-century social concerns such as poverty and the position of children. As such, this research is pertinent to exploring the silent film narrative and its legacy through analyzing Chaplin's visual strategies. 'The Kid' illustrates that this was the pinnacle of the silent film genre and how complex narrative and character development can be conveyed without using words. Moreover, this research reveals Chaplin's creative processes. It contributes to understanding the potential of visual narrative in Cinema, proving the significance of the silent film language in developing film language.

Thematic Construction in the Nigerian Political Cartoons: Newspaper Examples

This article explores the way insurgency and banditry are represented in Nigerian political cartoons. Using content analysis, the article examines how these security threats are constructed as themes in the cartoons. It analyses the key visual metaphors and symbols used to convey these themes, as well as the political messages they convey. A purposive sampling was employed, whereby ten cartoons depictions were selected and analysed using semiotic analysis as the theoretical framework to explore the emergent themes of the depictions.The findings identified five emergent themes, such as, banditry, insecurity and poor policies among others. The findings suggest that political cartoons play a significant role in raising awareness and shaping public discourse on insurgency and banditry in Nigeria.

Exploring mental representation of visual emoji symbols through human similarity judgments

Exploring mental representation of visual emoji symbols through human similarity judgments

Penguatan Identitas Lokal melalui Perencanaan Monumen Ikan Lele dan Ikan Nila sebagai Simbol Kearifan Lokal di Desa Aik Bukaq

This community service program aims to strengthen the local identity of Aik Bukaq Village through the planning and construction of Catfish and Tilapia Monuments. The village is recognized as a center for freshwater fish farming, which serves not only as the primary economic resource but also embodies cultural values passed down through generations. The monument is envisioned as a visual symbol of this local wisdom, while also functioning as a tourist attraction supporting the sustainable development of the village. The monument's design was developed through a participatory approach, involving the local community in every stage of planning, from initial concept to final design. The statues of catfish and tilapia, as the monument’s central elements, represent two species essential to the village’s economy and reflect local values such as hard work, sustainability, and harmony with nature. In addition to serving as a village landmark, the monument includes educational facilities with information panels explaining the importance of fish farming and environmental preservation. This program aims to foster a sense of pride and ownership within the community toward the monument, while also strengthening the local identity, which is increasingly recognized at both regional and national levels. Furthermore, the program is expected to boost tourism, positively impacting the village’s economy and raising awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. As a result, the Catfish and Tilapia Monuments will become a tangible representation of efforts to strengthen the local identity of Aik Bukaq Village, reflecting a collective commitment to sustainable cultural and environmental preservation.

Zabaied by Z: portraying democratic backsliding through political cartoons in Tunisia

ABSTRACT This article focuses on the portrayal of democratic backsliding in Tunisia through the lens of political cartoons, focusing on the work of the cartoonist Z. Z’s cartoons, particularly those featuring the satirical character Zabaied, a caricature of President Kais Saied, provide a unique perspective on the democratic backsliding that has occurred since he became president. Through rhetorical thematic discourse analysis of a corpus of 38 cartoons, this study explores how Z’s work portrays the ongoing democratic regression in Tunisia. Besides portraying Saied as an autocrat, the analysis reveals the following themes: mourning the ideals of the Tunisian revolution; the erosion of democratic institutions; attacks on freedom of expression, and the use of divisive, populist rhetoric. The cartoons employ visual symbolism and allegorical characters to depict the stages of autocracy, making abstract political concepts accessible and engaging. Ultimately, political cartoons provide a potent form of political commentary and a valuable tool for understanding democratic backsliding.

Beyond Words: Semiotic Strategies in Indonesian Presidential Campaign Posters

This article investigates the semiotic strategies employed in Indonesian presidential campaign posters, utilizing semiotics as a powerful tool to decode symbols and signs in political communication. The study focuses on the verbal and visual aspects of the posters, aiming to uncover their intended meaning, myth, and ideologies. Through a comprehensive analysis of the visual elements, symbols, and textual cues, the research examines the semiotic strategies employed to convey messages and influence voter perceptions. Drawing on theoretical frameworks of semiotics and political communication, the findings reveal how subtle visual and textual choices shape the interpretation and reception of political messages. The implications extend beyond this specific campaign, offering valuable insights for future electoral discourse and visual communication strategies. Understanding the semiotic strategies in political campaigning enhances our comprehension of the complex dynamics of political communication, facilitating a more nuanced understanding of how political messages are constructed and perceived. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of semiotics in political communication and provides a foundation for further research in the field.

Cultural identity and royal symbolism in Uganda: regalia in the investiture of the King of Buganda

As an invented tradition of Uganda, the investiture of the King of Buganda stands out as one of the defining practices impacting cultural identity and the expression of power in the country. The regalia emerges as an iconography of regal glory which serves to legitimize power. This paper addresses the following questions: first, how would the investiture of the King of Buganda be seen in the context of visual narratives of cultural identity in Uganda? Second, how did the regalia serve to legitimize the power of the monarch to elevate his socio-political status in the country? Third, how does the King of Buganda become recognizable through art and adornment? Using a reflective, multistranded approach, this essay studies the material culture of Buganda accession ceremonies by integrating interviews with coronation officiants and painted depictions by the lead author. We argue that the royal regalia of monarchs offers visual symbolism that is enduring and significant, deeply owing to an ‘invented’ tradition and enshrined customs in a people’s culture – in this case, of Buganda’s kings.

Bersama Membangun Gapura Desa: Gotong Royong Mewujudkan Ikon Baru Desa Kota Guring, Kec.Rajabasa, Kab.Lampung Selatan

Kota Guring Village is located in Rajabasa District and has significant potential for development, both in terms of natural resources and human resources. The construction of the gate aims to make Kota Guring Village have an icon that is visible and known to the outside community. Community service in building a village gate through cooperation in Kota Guring Village, Rajabasa District, South Lampung Regency aims to create a new symbol for the village that can increase the sense of togetherness and awareness of residents. The construction of the Kota Guring Village gate has several stages in building village infrastructure that will become the icon and identification mark of the village. This process is carried out with a holistic and participatory approach. The results of the construction of the gate in Kota Guring Village which was carried out on July 28, 2024 and ended on August 15, 2024. The results of this activity are not only seen in the physical form of the gate, but also have a positive impact on the community and the surrounding environment. First of all, the results of this activity can be observed through the entrance gate which stands firmly as a visual symbol of the character of the community. Therefore, the implementation of this community service activity needs to be carried out with an appropriate strategy to overcome various existing challenges and ensure the success of the construction of the village gate which will become a new icon for Kota Guring Village

Moderating Effects of Visual Order in Graphical Symbol Complexity: The Practical Implications for Design

In the field of visual graphic design, complexity plays a crucial role in visual information processing, and it is assumed to be an absolute quantity based on the number of the presenting features and components. However, it remains unclear whether the visual order of the constituent elements in graphical symbol complexity affects cognitive processing, especially memory processing. Our research innovatively generated four groups of novel, meaningless graphical symbols (complex and ordered, complex and disordered, simple and ordered, and simple and disordered) and experimentally manipulated the level of complexity and order in these stimuli. Before the formal experiment, a five-point scale was used to further rule out differences between objective and subjective definitions of these graphical symbols on ratings of complexity, order, concreteness, and familiarity. Then, we used a cue-recall task to compare subjects’ memory performance of those four graphical symbol groups. The analytical results showed a significant interaction between visual order and graphical symbol complexity, with the complexity effect appearing only when the stimuli were in disordered condition and disappearing once the stimuli were ordered. In addition, this study conducted a practical application validation to confirm that increasing the level of visual order is an effective way to improve user experience while maintaining the same level of complexity. The findings can serve as a reference for graphical symbol design, graphic design, and visual communication design.

Exploring the Impact of Emojis on Paralanguage in Social Media Communication among University Students

This research investigated the evolving role of emojis in shaping paralanguage within social media communication, with a particular focus on how these visual symbols enhance linguistic and emotional expression. The study examined the nuanced ways in which emojis contribute to the overall tone, context, and meaning in written discourse, while also considering cultural and contextual variations in emoji usage among individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Conducted with a sample of 55 Year-3 Bachelor of Education students at a university in Fiji, where English is a second language, the research employed a mixed methods approach to analyze data on the usage and perception of emojis in social media communication. This paper argues that emojis play a crucial role in conveying emotions, fostering engagement, and adding personality to messages, thereby augmenting textual communication with emotional nuance and clarity, leading to more empathetic and meaningful online interactions. The findings indicate that emojis are widely used across various communication channels, including text messages, comments, and direct messages, reflecting their versatility and widespread adoption. Respondents overwhelmingly perceive emojis as positive tools that enhance the effectiveness of digital communication by conveying emotions, fostering engagement, and adding personality to messages. The study also highlights the significant role emojis play in nonverbal communication, particularly in expressing emotions that may be difficult to articulate through text alone. By providing emotional nuance, clarity, and depth, emojis contribute to more empathetic and meaningful interactions in online spaces. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between emojis and paralanguage in contemporary digital communication, signifying the importance of these symbols in enriching text-based exchanges and fostering more engaging and emotionally resonant social media interactions.

Constructing Global Identity Through Creative Linguistic and Artistic Branding of African Countries’ Monikers

This qualitative study investigated into the complex dynamics of African nation monikers and their profound implications for national identity and international branding. The purpose of the research was to examine the interplay between linguistic inventiveness and artistic representation in 54 African nations, exploring how these components contributed to shaping global perceptions. Adopting a content analysis approach, the study systematically investigated linguistic nuances and artistic depictions associated with each nation's moniker. The population comprised the 54 diverse African nations, ensuring a purposive and representative sampling approach that considered linguistic, cultural, and geographical variations. Data was sourced from official documents, historical records, and public discourse surrounding each nation's moniker, with a focus on linguistic analysis from official statements, literature, and media representations. Artistic representations were examined through visual sources such as national emblems, flags, and associated symbols. The findings revealed a complex tapestry of linguistic features firmly anchored in cultural and historical contexts. Artistic depictions, including visual metaphors and symbols, contributed significantly to each nation's unique character. Notable examples included Nigeria's "The Giant of Africa" and South Africa's "The Rainbow Nation." Recommendations emphasized the strategic use of linguistic and artistic components to enhance international image, recognizing their critical role in shaping global perceptions of African nations. The study also acknowledged its limitations and proposed directions for future research, offering valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of language and creative expression in constructing national identity on the global stage.

Strategy Texts as Auto-Communication: How Narrative, Language, and Visual Symbolism Exercise Discursive Control

ABSTRACT Strategy texts are an important way of communicating a strategy to a range of different stakeholders, including internal audiences as the organization communicates with itself (auto-communication). In this article, we analyze two related strategy texts that were produced for auto-communicative purposes as part of a strategic change initiative in a UK organization that employed a storytelling approach to strategic communication. Our multimodal analysis shows how narrative, visual symbolism and directive lexical choices and grammatical forms used in the two strategy texts exercise discursive control using three main mechanisms: (1) encouraging action through future-focused narrative structure; (2) strengthening emotional attachment with the organization through purposeful selection of anecdotes from a shared stock of stories; and (3) defining desired actions and behaviours through visual symbolism and directive lexical choices and grammatical forms. Moreover, the article contributes to current debates of the nature of strategic communication by demonstrating the tension between linear and dialogic communication in practice, while also providing rare empirical insights on the use of auto-communication in contemporary strategic communication.

Analysis Semiotic of the Movie Siksa Neraka By Anggy Umbara (Semiotic Analysis of Charles Sanders Pierce)

ABSTRACT The film can be used in preaching. This research aims to analyze the preaching messages in the movie "Siksa Neraka" by Anggy Umbara using Charles Sanders Peirce's semiotic approach. The research method used is qualitative. Data were analyzed through three main components: sign, object, and interpretant. The analysis results show that the film "Siksa Neraka" conveys various important preaching messages through visual symbolism and dialogue between characters. Some identified preaching messages include prohibitions against speaking harshly to parents, delaying prayers, inviting and committing sinful acts, committing adultery, cheating, gambling, slandering, and committing suicide. This film effectively conveys preaching values through the use of meaningful signs that can influence viewers to reflect on and improve their behavior. This research reveals how the film conveys moral messages and emphasizes the importance of visual media in educating and spreading religious values. Keywords: Dakwah, Movie, Punishment, Hell

DESIGNING VISUAL SYMBOLS IN DIGITAL CULTURE

Designing visual symbols is crucial in the ever-changing world of digital culture for communication, identity building, and cultural expression. With an eye toward the aesthetic, functional, and semiotic aspects, this article delves into the methods and principles of making effective visual symbols in digital settings. The study delves into a wide array of digital symbols, including emojis, logos, icons for user interfaces, and digital art, to uncover how these visual components communicate meaning, impact user behavior, and aid in forming online identities and communities. Recognizing digital spaces' multicultural and global character, the research highlights the significance of cultural sensitivity and contextual knowledge throughout the design phase. Additionally, it delves into how technological innovations, including augmented reality and vector graphics, have influenced the development of visual symbols. The adaptability of symbols in response to user interactions and cultural trends may be shown in case studies from various digital platforms and social media networks. The results stress the importance of designers balancing originality and clarity in creating visually appealing and universally understandable symbols. At the end of the paper, we suggest ways to make symbols that may change with digital culture and appeal to different audiences by using iterative design processes and user feedback.

DESAIN BALIHO KAMPANYE MAHYELDI - AUDY DI PILGUB SUMBAR 2020 SEKARANG

This study analyzes the design of Mahyeldi - Audy's campaign billboard in the 2020 West Sumatra Gubernatorial Election using a qualitative approach with a literature study method. The analysis focuses on visual elements, typography, symbolism, and visual narratives used in the billboard design. The results show that the billboard design successfully combines traditional Minangkabau elements with a vision of modernity, creating a strong visual narrative about leadership rooted in local values yet oriented towards progress. The use of color, typography, and local symbolism demonstrates a deep understanding of the socio-cultural context of West Sumatra. The design's effectiveness lies in its ability to convey complex campaign messages through an easily digestible visual medium while building an emotional connection with voters. However, this design also raises critical questions about gender representation, identity politicization, and the ethics of visual political communication. This study contributes to the understanding of the role of visual communication in shaping political discourse and influencing voter behavior in an increasingly mature era of local democracy.