Week 3 — Project 1c: Defining Semiotics

To help clear up confusion about pragmatics: Pragmatics is the relationship of the signs to the interpreters. Think of Isaac's Bape example. That sign didn't connect with me, because I didn't have a relationship with the brand. So, the example of pragmatics would be that the jacket & logo's (the sign: signified & signifier) would have a connotation that would only be relevant to an audience familiar with the culture associated with the brand.

Studio Day

• review part B & C, revise layouts

Homework:

Post to your blog why the application and understanding of semiotics are essential to becoming an effective communicator in the visual field.

Parts B & C: Defining Semiotics 

terms:

• semiotics, semantics, pragmatic, sign, signified, signifier, icon, index, symbol, paradigm, syntagm, connotation, denotation, anchor, relay

methods:

• clear/correct and concise definitions for each term, in your own words, thoughtfully designed. (15 total) Consider your visual imagery to support your definitions. 
• well written, concise and insightful reflection on what you learned about semiotics and its application to graphic design practice (1-2 paragraphs)

Overall requirements

• Use work already started during the original studies/assignments.
• Select artifacts that are not only correct examples of each theory, but also showcase a breadth/elevation in visual criticism and aesthetic sensitivity.
• Give proper credit where credit is due (where you found artifacts, who it's by)
• Produce everything digitally (however, refined analog methods can certainly be incorporated!)
• Prioritize the content and clarity of communication, but do not overlook form.
• Design with consistency, in color, in high res, as a keynote
• Post to blog, for final evaluation using Scribd.com

due: Monday Feb 16, as part of your final presentation of A, B & C

Blog/homework checklist:

• reading responses (3)
• definition lists (2 sets)
• city safari with labels
• graphic artifacts with labels
• changing connotations
• semiotic labeling
• anchor and relay with labels
• defining semiotics: part a