"Visual Literacy is what is seen with the eye and 'seen' with the mind." ~ Dr. Anne Bamford

Visual communication is the way we use images, graphics, colors, and design to get a message across. And here's what we know for sure: visual communication is complicated and has a ton of moving pieces, any of which can go spinning in the opposite direction at any time.

It's a fun stew of images, symbols, designs, colors, art, faces all that help people understand complex ideas and concepts more easily. Things like logos, social media graphics, infographics, memes, ads and even the layout of a website all help tell a story or convey information without relying solely on words. It can be a uniting factor among people. Think of religious symbols or national flags as an example. But the key to communication is *understanding*. If your audience doesn't understand your image, by running it through their culture and contact filters, you've failed at communication.

Why does it matter? Because people process visuals way faster than text. A striking image or a well-designed infographic can grab attention in seconds, making it easier to remember and understand information. Plus, in a world where everyone’s scrolling at lightning speed, good visual communication helps brands, businesses, and individuals stand out.

Whether you're building a brand, telling a story, marketing a product or just trying to make information easier to digest, strong visuals make a huge difference. It's not just about looking good—it’s about communicating effectively and making an impact.

LISTEN TO THE LECTURE:

TO DO:

ASSIGNMENT: Bringing Audio to Life with Visuals
QUIZ: Visual Communication Theories
- Available on Friday at 9 a.m. until Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
DOWNLOAD LECTURE SLIDES: Visual Communication Theory (LECTURE SLIDES)-1.pdf
If you have drama using the video above, here is the direct link to the lecture.

From our conversation:

How do we feel about stereotypes? Play with your friends: Serial Killer or Programmer??

Some things to know:

Visual Culture
Visual Literacy
Lasswell's Communication Model
Huxley's Circle Dance of Communication
- The more you know, the more you see.
Viewers Make Meaning
Gowan's Four Functions of Art

Theories:

Hypodermic Needle Theory: Definition, Examples & Criticisms

Viewer-made Meaning:

The Evolution of an Accidental Meme. How one little graphic became shared and adapted by millions
50 famous memes and what they mean
Distracted Boyfriend - Know your Meme

Semiotics:

Emoji Use At Work? Survey Says — Thumbs Up! (NPR)
Who Created The Original Apple Emoji Set?
43 Symbols and Meanings in Graphic Design
First Look: New Emojis in iOS 17.4
Have Bows Gone Too Far? (Yes, Bows Have Gone Too Far.)
It's a Puzzlement! Tease Your Brain With These Broadway Rebuses

Color:

Juxtaposition:

Logos as the Message:

World’s Most Famous Logos: Top 10 Famous Logos and What You Can Learn From Them