Image Assignment

Part II- Studium/Punctum

The studium reading of this image is rather simple. With her head tilted towards the left, the woman smiles happily at life. Apparently, something or everything is going well- work, family, life. The way her hands are situated, with her left arm around her waist and her right arm around the chair further complements the idea that she is content with the current situation. Additionally, the woman’s eyes are closed, which further signifies her comfort. The comfortable position, smile of contentment on her face, and closed eyes, along with the shining sun in the background show that all is well.

The punctum reading, which is more personal and unique to each individual, involves the cross situated slightly right of the middle. I colored the cross light blue and bordered it in bright yellow to symbolize not only God’s role in creating the beauty of the scene, as they are symbolic of God, but the overall joy attained by viewing the scene and the smiling woman. I left the cross small and in its present position to illustrate that God’s work is oftentimes subtle and also that he works in subtle ways. Additionally, it is small yet noticeable because God oftentimes works that way; people take for granted what is there, but after simply taking a moment to enjoy life and nature, much like this woman is currently doing, one would appreciate what God has done. Because the cross is a punctum, it is my personal interpretation.


Part III- Front and Back Leaflet

Using white (a serious font that suits the background), bold text, the text conveys a serious message to the Iraqi citizens to not use nuclear weapons. The index, the mushroom cloud of the atomic bomb warns that destruction will occur should Iraqi citizens support use of such weapons. The two icons, the man wearing the mask and the “biohazard” symbol, warn of impending medical conditions, including death from using the weapons.

The back side of the leaflet continues the message of the first leaflet in concise, straightforward language to tell the typical Iraqi citizen through black, bold direct text to support the U.S. Coalition forces in its war efforts in Iraq. The text helps the reader understand that weapons shouldn’t be used because they’re harmful and could help support the oppressive rule of Saddam and his regime, who should be overthrown for their tyranny, among other compelling reasons. The cartoonish icon of Saddam illustrates how Saddam essentially holds Iraq in his fist, while the real photo of Saddam to the right contrasts cartoon look, showing that he is a real, threatening person who is not afraid to use his power. The blue border surrounding the overall image adds color to the white background and lessens the intensity of the message, acknowledging that the writer of the message has good intentions in mind.