Sadie Hinton

Professor Smith

English 101

December 1st 2016

Visual Text Analysis

Artists use visuals to convey messages to an audience just like an author uses words to do the same thing. When looking through the many pieces of art the observer can begin to realize the message. But are they consciously recognizing each element that is leading them to that conclusion? Not in most cases. This image is of a woman in a white lengthy skirt, topless with her arms and hair flung back. All sorts of colors, spirals, butterflies, etc. are breaking out of her chest with immense strength. The artist took this piece and created it with strong contrast, high saturation, spotlight, positioning and heavy detail to convey the message of individuality within each human being. 

The bright colors are what stands out the most at first glance. Bright colors and the rainbow in general are most heavily associated with individuality and creativity. These colors can also be interpreted as the different emotions expelling out of just about anyone as well. Since the colors are so bright they contrast with the other two elements that make up the drawing such as the background which makes up majority of the drawing and the woman placed almost in the center. It seems, that both are made up of neutral colors so the creativity or colors is the focal point. Black and white are contrasting colors in a sense that black is the darkest and white is the lightest. In any other case, the two colors could be reversed to where the woman is dressed in black and the background is white but then that could ruin another element shown within the piece. The artist is screaming with emotions when doodling out each swirl and line. These emotions are more figuratively being put on paper. Along with the color, the shape and movement of the images are very whimsical in nature. With this it can be related to that of a “free spirit”. When thinking of the idea of a free spirit, one can imagine someone living to their full potential and expressing all their strengths. 

Out of all of the many colors and images existing outside of her body, the beautiful butterflies seem to be the only thing that truly resembles something with life. These butterflies seem to live in everyone and for this individual they are finally breaking out. When they are stuck inside someone then they aren’t living to their full potential and “spreading their wings” just like the person. The artist is portraying the unique elements of this person breaking out so that this woman can finally be what she was born to be. In this, the butterflies exemplify the parts living within someone haven’t been completely set free.

One of the most striking elements (after the vibrancy) would have to be the positioning of the woman in the image. She is placed dead center with a spotlight on her so our attention goes straight to her after analyzing the colorful ribbons coming out of her chest. Usually spot lights are used in performances where all the attention is put on that individual or team. People aren’t usually very quick to be who they really are and most will resist the temptations of living to the fullest potential. Over time the build-up of these emotions become stronger and stronger as the person resists which in the end would make the force even stronger when the person finally lets go of that barrier. 

Last but not least, the point where it all comes together. At first glance, one can just a mix of color popping out at you and the artist did this on purpose. They did this so that it became a very harsh and almost breath taking. The idea of someone growing to their full potential and being the best person they can be is something to be celebrated and by doing this sharp contrast it is eye catching. When it catches you attention with all the bold lines and bright color up against pure white and complete darkness, you can’t help but be pulled in by it and fully admire this woman’s transformation.

All in all, each image ever created is created with a purpose. If anyone just takes the time to look at each element, they will be able to find the different pieces that are creating a specific message. In this one in particular, the artist is using each element of the image to convey the message of individuality within each person. There are tons of different bold technics and stylistic elements that catch the person observing it to tell a story. He/she uses all sorts of color, lines, positioning, etc. to make sure this message is presented to the observer as well as possible.

Work cited

Zeila. Deviantart.com , 7 November 2011