Category Archives: Uncategorized

W2: A COLLECTION OF LIKE OBJECTS – “signs”

Every city has many different signs. They are indispensable to some extent, reminding people to pay attention to for different things, although not everyone will pay attention to them. But what if they are taken separately in the lens? What is the look like? What are their original purposes?


 

This photo is very interesting. I can’t even shoot a version that is not covered by leaves. There are also some graffiti and signatures. Is this a sign or a drawing board?

            

“Sorry, what do you want to tell us?” I mean, some signs without words can be confusing, and really make people forget them at a glance.

 

But I personally like some of the logos very much – ok, I know what’s you mean, this place is there.

 

The photo I chose is this one. The top of this sign is a little ageing and it looks like it is already old. Who will notice it? In addition to the driver, the passers-by will not pay attention to the fact that there is a sign. When the film was shot at first, the original theme was signed. Now, what can be noticed in this photo is the person or the sign next to him? (For me, the staff who wearing orange clothes is more attractive to me)


Maybe some of the signs that reminding people can be recreated beautiful and interesting? By this way, people may be able to notice them more. But it is tangled that: it seems that it is not a good thing to attract attention on the road. Maybe the traditional colours like redyellowblack are more warning?

 

 

Initiative 11

American Idol, a famous TV show in the U.S., is a specific example of popular culture. This show was originated from the British TV show “Pop Idol” that was initially launched in the U.S. in 2002. It is a competitive music program that was held once per year. This show provides a platform for many potential singers of popular music, like Kelly Clarkson. The winner of the competition will be the American Idol and will be awarded a contract releasing album for that singer. This TV show has been broadcasted 15 seasons until 2016 and was ended in 2016.

The reasons why I think that the TV show is a specific example of popular culture are as follows:

1. It is popular. Each season of American Idol always attracted the public’s attention and caused huge social repercussions and economic interests. Every year, singers were initially selected in several big cities. Through selection of the first stage, 24 singers will sing to television audiences of the whole country in the TV show. And audiences can vote through telephone or website. So, this TV show attracted lots of people’s attention at the production stage. After broadcasting on TV, it always obtained remarkable ratings. The singers and songs appeared in the show were quickly remembered and transferred. Young people were always talking about the singers they support. As a popular TV show in the U.S., it usually leads the trend of popular music, and its audience can be found in any parts of the world. Many of my Chinese friends oftentimes watched this show and learned to sing those songs in the show. Obviously, this show exerts great influences on the popular culture, especially popular music, all over the world.

2. In terms of culture, American Idol not only promotes the development of popular music but also expresses some positive social values. It shows young people’s courage, efforts and confidence in pursuing their dream. Thus, it is a positive value to encourage people to try hard in order to get what they want. Moreover, this TV show also embodies the spirit of competition and democracy. It does not care about singer’s appearance and background and provides fair opportunities for the public. Meanwhile, audiences took part in the program through democratic votes.