Meaning 2: Interactions Between the Three Levels of Meaning

McDonald's Golden Arches The design for the infamous M started with the idea from an architect, for two golden arches on the sides of each McDonald's restaurant, that would, in certain angles, form and M. Later, Jim Schindler created the future logo.

Representational

Piecing the McDonald’s sign together we are able to see what the company is about. It represents the food chain, McDonald’s, as a whole. When we see the M we are reminded of a huge corporation that is the grand daddy of all fast food chains. Having such a long history in America, it represents the innovation of a business during one era, and the gluttony and obesity of generation. The abstract and symbolic nature of the logo has embodied the business in its entirety.

Abstract

Behind the M logo are two abstract geometric shapes that represent the company and its food. The colors together are synonymous with food, and are reminiscent of the McDonald’s fries and ketchup. They can also be interpreted as mustard and ketchup or their infamous French fry boxes. To the viewer, it does what the company wants it to do, make us hungry. Various studies show the correlation between specific colors and reactions, most of which demonstrate that the color yellow and red tend to make us feel hungry. While the shapes can be representational of the food, it is a simplification that heads at the root of who they are.

Symbolic

McDonald’s logo is as synonymous with hamburgers and fries, as mouse ears are to Disney. Seeing the golden arches know exactly what they offer and what we will get. It is symbolic of their standard of food, and speed in service. Its simplicity could be confused with abstractness, but is distinct on its own.

MEANING 1 - Blog Exercise

Representational: This photo represents today's crisis in Syria. It shows the seriousness of their conditions and terror that the people go through. The use of a child in the photo furthers the plea for change. Seeing the life drained from the child's eyes is an effective way of reaching out to its viewer.

Abstract: Within this piece is a definitive simplicity that is developed from its foundation.Immediately, the first thought upon viewing this piece is fluid, liquid, and earthly. The abstract in this photo is derived from water. The colors and reflective qualities are that of shimmering in light, while the uneven streaks show movement.

Symbolism: The sign of a bat is notoriously symbolic to the super hero, Batman. It represents his calling to defend and protect and in the comic book world it is a sign of hope. In real life it is known as the symbol of a beloved character whose vigilantly as a normal human being appears feasible.