1999-06
The Differences between visual Impression and abstract Expression
Visual Impression
NATURAL PHENOMENA
Content that is made to support information transfer using common imagery needs the visual impression to quickly provide "comprehension". This kind of "information vehicle" has to be very evident to be clearly recognized. The human eye is very finetuned with natural appearances, those impressions work on a deeper level of perception; leading to a concrete, 'common' solution.
Abstract Expression
THE RECIPIENT BASIS — SENDER SIDE IGNITION
Information is presented in an abstract manner; roughly composed of shapes, colors, etc. Pictures that rely on a "common knowledge" might lack a photorealistic appearance: the recipient builds the "concrete" image or atmosphere in his mind. Information transfer that is founded on such "common" knowledge uses the recipients individual resources in order to produce the complete intended content. It is always possible to provide single ideas addressing various viewers in — finally "customized" ways. The range of "successful" destinations forces completely different perceptions of one and the same idea depending on the viewers resources, capabilities or expectations.
RECIPIENT SIDE RESOURCES
Building content based on shared knowledge reduces the amount of data in general and specifically the amount of time spent to perceive the "initial information". The information is generated 'after' reading the initial components. The y2k input situation is highly saturated. There is a wide range of potentially "shareable" information.
STRUCTURE
Sophisticated, complex structures tend to be "overinterpreted"; on the other hand, simple, elaborated structures need the will to use one's own resources to produce the desired range of results.