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Shape A, with its bold black outline and the symmetrical intersection of its vertical and horizontal rectangles, serves as a visual metaphor for strength (bold outline) and stability (symmetry); two very positive characteristics that we associate with health service organizations. In Shape B, vertical and horizontal rectangles intersect in the upper quadrant of the vertical rectangle. Our attention is drawn to this intersection and the cross takes on the image of a person with arms outstretched in a gesture that suggests openness and vulnerability. The Latin Cross not only symbolizes Christianity, it also possesses the potential to serve as a metaphor for Christian ideals depending upon how it is rendered and interpreted.
Another way to think about sign, symbol and metaphor is to relate these concepts to the notions of what is denoted (actually there) and what is connoted (what is implied) in works of art. Signs for objects are denoted; the signs actually exist in works as representations of objects. These signs for objects function as symbols only if appropriate associations can be made with them; therefore, symbols are connoted or implied. They are inferred from what can be observed. Visual metaphors are also connoted, but they are inferred from a holistic interpretation of the objects in a work and the way the work is put together; i.e., its subject matter, its technical properties (how it is rendered), and its formal style. These characteristics will be discussed in subsequent sections.
Self Test / Review
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