SB2 - Study Task 4 - Visual Response DEFINITIONS

As a means of formulating some potential starting points for the visual journal, we worked through the definitions of line, shape, colour, texture and college in light of relevant COP themes. It was discussed that drawing is a form of meaning making, and as such, these approaches to image making can inform the message and tone of voice of an image. 

GROUP DISCUSSION
Firstly, we worked as a group, applying the 5 elements to politics. This worked well as an exercise in getting me to understand the meaning inferred and asserted from certain visual devices. It was interesting to think both literally and symbolically, considering actions and clues. From the group task we identified the politics of colour and line, exploring divisions and parties, potential ethos and characteristics. I am particularly interested in the way colour can develop a tone of voice and perhaps how this could be considered with collage as a means of capturing the integration or rather segregation of ideals and views. 

APPLICATION TO OWN THEME

In light of my own COP theme, I have considered the application of these elements to the issue of taste and aesthetics. Having identified the issue of conflict and flux between ideals and institutions, it would be interesting to explore line as a means of visually realising this struggle. In a more abstract sense, marks and an exploration of line quality could capture the inner conflict of the artist and the weight of aura and institution on artists. 

Furthermore, colour could work as a symbolic tool to explore high art values against low art aesthetics such as kitsch which could work alongside collage to create embellished kitsch imagery or re-appropriation of high-art motifs. 

Following on from this consideration of definitions and visual devices, I will now work through some initial ideas, considering all 5 elements in order to explore a body of potential responses to my chosen theme.