IMAGE AND LANGUAGE
IMAGE AND LANGUAGE
The architectural message can be transmitted through different channels. The visitor receives information through his/her visual, tactile, olfactory, or acoustical senses. The visual sense is known as the most influential one. If we consider architecture as a system of communication, the importance of attracting visual senses arises, and this attraction can be done by image. Since the past till now, the image in different terms and perceptions has tried to transfer this message.
The massage which is the out birth of all creature`s needs such as human or nature and this was done with different tools, elements and materials. Using visual materials allow to better match the respondent`s perception to possible stimuli. Materials as one of the most crucial elements to visualize the connections are undetectable part of architecture.
Analyzing or criticizing the building according to its material is not the usual way, but when it comes to glass or mirror it does not act like other materials such as stone or brick. Stone or brick may have identity and history in its background, on the other hand glass as a modern material has something to illustrate and manifest in its appearance which is called the image. The image which is reflecting on the water or the image on the façade of the building, both of them are trying to tell a story or deliver a message in different languages. This story is tremendously tied to the power of imagination and symbolization of the people or visitors who are looking to it. Kellerhals indicates that the image can develop variety of stories in different interpretations for different dwellers. The language of image in architecture is closely in relation to people and their identity and way of life. In other words it is socio-cultural language. This language has changed during each period. Also people`s perceptions and beliefs have changed a lot, so it is necessary to compare and pick the differentiations and overlaps in each period.
“You use a glass mirror to see your face,
You use works of art to see your soul.”
George Bernard Shaw
