Reading Assesment

Reading Assessment

Ch. 5 106-120

    On pages 106-120, Barrett talks about the difference contexts of photos. Internal refers to what is shown in the photo and interpreted on the basis of what is evident in the photo. The meaning comes from the objects included in the photo. 

    Original context is described as photos referring to something else. In order to interpret the photo, it would need to be understood in relation to its context. Different meaning could be taken from the photo without the original context. This may include historical, cultural or knowledge of other work by the artist. 

    External refers to the surrounding of the photos, necessary where they are placed. One example Doisneau’s picture of the woman in the cafe, which was used in different works. One interpretation was a man gazing at a woman in a cafe, but others were used as warnings against the dangers of alcohol. This is due to the ambiguous element of the photo and it will be interpreted according What surrounds it.

It’s interesting to know the significance of a photos surrounding in relation to is meaning. The artist has to choose carefully where the photo is placed, or else it will be misinterpreted. In addition to that, the objects involved in the photo contribute to its meaning.