Semiotics

My understanding of semiotics is that it is the study of the meaning behind signs or symbols. Semiotics is used to communicate a particular idea or message. The most effective way to communicate is by using simplified symbols. This is due to the fact that these images are much more universal and easier to identify quickly.
Some other concepts that were introduced in Friday’s lecture were denotation and connotation. The meaning of a symbol is what it denotes. The example that was used in class was that a symbol of a man denotes a man. The thing that a symbol suggests or represents is what it connotes. For example, a symbol of a man connotes that a men’s restroom is nearby.
Brushes
I also learned the importance of buying good quality paint brushes. If you invest in a good quality brush you will be able to achieve a variety of widths. If you use cheap brushes you will need several different sizes of brushed to accomplish the same look. I also learned that even though all brushes appear to come to a nice point in the store, the cheap brushes will lose this look once they are used.