Classroom Activity for Assignment 2: Types of representation, Group activity (Group of 2)
Brief Synopsis on Assignment 2:
- To identify a location or object and create a representative image of the object by using either indexic or iconic representation.
- Distill the image to a point where by it will lose its original communication message and identity.
- Create a symbol out of this distillation process and it must not only be recognized but also remembered and even reproduced.
Classroom Activity:
- This activity is done as a group of two with time limit of 45 mins.
- Select an object (eg. Computer, mp3 player, cell phone)
- Try to create iconic and indexic representations of the object.
Initially it was rather hard for us to come out with an object using both representations matter and agree on what to be drawn. We had came out with few objects but some how we are only able to think of one of the representation methods but not both. It was rather challenging, as we need to identify an object which is not too simple nor complex for illustration. Here are some of the items that we thought of:
- Computer
- Speakers
- Bag
- Pencil
- Heels
- Chair
- Clock
- Vehicles
After some discussion and few attempts we decided on the following two objects.
For 1st object:
We have choosen a clock to represent time. It was being used as the iconic representation. An hourglass was chosen to represent indexic represntation. I reckon many groups also had adopted similar concept and we thought it would be good to come out with another object to test our knowledge regarding on the representation methods.
For 2nd object:
This leads to the development on 2nd object, a car. It was being used as the iconic representation. As for indexic representation we thought of simplifying it into just the ouline of the shape without much details being given to the audience.
Knowledge gained from this classroom activity and lecture:
Many symbols are created by exploring various types of representations such as iconic, indexic and symbolic. It can also be in realistic to abstract form depending on the designers' intention. However it is vital that repesenation of the design's intended meaning is able to be recongnised and agreed by the audience.
Often, communication breaks down as designers failed to relate to the audience due to inadequate sharing of knowledge towards the same object. At times, it might be due to environment factor which act as noise that disrupted the intended message. There are alot of uncontrollable factors which will be acting as noise but designers should try to minimize the occurance of these factors.
It is essential for designers to understand the behaviour and mindset of target audiences. To understand and relate to the cultural and environmental aspects which differ from nations, races, genders and even age groups. By doing so, designers would be able to have better grasp on how do the target audiences perceive towards a particular object. From here, the designer will be able to come out with a better visual communication design which is clear and precise for the audiences to perceive and agreed upon.
