Artist Statement
In "Drowning," my work delves into the multifaceted symbolism of knives in propaganda, seeking a more abstract and culturally sensitive depiction of this potent symbol. Combining the visual styles of Saul Bass with a vague depiction of a shadow figure, I aim to present knives as a representation of animosity towards actions rather than individuals. Influenced by historical propaganda, I strive for a nuanced portrayal that avoids harmful stereotypes. Through "Drowning" and similar explorations, I invite viewers to contemplate the power of visual imagery in shaping perceptions of conflict, urging them to critically engage with the narratives presented in propaganda.
Influences
Abram Games
Saul Bass
Elsa Kula
Saul Bass
Cliff Chiang
Seymour Goff
Anti-Japanese Poster (unknown artist)
Drafts
First Draft
Final Draft
Design and Ethical Considerations
Knives have several contexts in the realm of symbolism in propaganda. In one of the instances, knives are used to portray animosity in the enemy. A significant example of this is present in one of the posters that rose to prominence shortly after the Japanese bombings of Pearl Harbor (also showcased in the last picture in Influences). In an article written by Tolga Akalin, the author describes, “The USA tried to create the perception of the enemy in the eyes of the public by depicting Japanese soldiers brutally on posters” (2021, p. 1369). Recognizing the notions behind the depictions of Japanese people in that poster, I wanted to take a more abstract and culturally sensitive depiction of this symbol. By combining the visual styles of Saul Bass with the vague depiction of a shadow figure, I attempted to present this symbol as it was used to associate the animosity more towards the offending party's actions rather than means to generalize and caricature that party based on stereotypes. The synthesis of Saul Bass's style into the shadowy figure gave me a great opportunity to depict the animosity in the figure's gestures.
Final Print
References
Akalin, T. (2021). RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE WAR PROPAGANDA AND ART. Idil: Sanat ve Dil Dergisi, 10(85). https://doi.org/10.7816/idil-10-85-08