Well to put it in basic terms, symbolism refers to using visual cues to express a concept. For example, a heart symbol is associated with love. Our associations with symbols shape the way we perceive visual experiences. This makes symbolism a powerful tool for photographers.
Symbolism developed alongside the origins of visual arts itself.
To understand symbolism in photography, we first need to investigate the history and origins of symbols in fine art.
The concept that a marking expresses numerous possible meanings is demonstrated in art dating back millennia.
Like for example, The Mayans adopted the jaguar as a symbol of ferocity, strength, valour, and foresight. They carved likenesses of the big cat into temple walls and stelae.
<span>The Venus of Urbino is a painting by the Italian artist
Titian (Tiziano) which is an oil on canvas created in 1534. Other than its
technical excellence, this painting is known for “domesticating” Venus. For the
first time, the artist brought her indoors, engaging her with the viewer, and explicating
her sensuality. In fact, this painting doesn’t represent any of the godly
attributes she’s supposed to represent, on the contrary, the painter has
created an unapologetically erotic and sensual representation of the goddess.
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Andrea Mantegna, and Vincent Van Gogh,Thomas Eakins,Anna Boch,Kate Greenway,Mary Stevenson Cassatt,Hannah Hoch,and Kurt Schwitters. These are all the artists known for their collages.
