The Semantic Function of Representation in Contemporary Visual Art

현대 시각예술에서 재현의 의미기능

What is the semantic function of visual image in Contemporary art? This article proposes that representation is semantically still important in post-modernism as well as in modernism. The semantic function of representation has been changed by keeping pace with times. In modernism the 'outer representation' changed to 'inner representation', and in postmodernism the 'inner representation' changed to 'metaphorical representation'. The 'outer representation' means that image indicates a certain object or subject as the classical realism. In this case, the meaning of image is subordinate to an object, and a one-to-one correspond existed between the image and the object. Because this 'outer representation' is focused on an object but subject's intention, the indicative function of meaning is definite and singular. The 'inner representation' means that image exposes the fundamentals or process of an object. In this case, the meaning of image resolves itself into an absolute fundamental, and one-to-many correspond existed between the image and the object. Because this 'inner representation' is focused on essence and substance but an external form, the indicative function of meaning is inclusive and general. The 'metaphorical representation' means that image critically relates social constraint and condition as metaphor and allegory. In this case, the meaning of image is not subordinate to an object and a subject, and the image and the object indicate interactively. Because this 'metaphorical representation' is focused on interaction between subject, object, and interpreter, the indicative function of meaning is differant and ecological. This article focused on the representation because I believe that continuous thinking of totality can be opened by cognitive mapping, even though we never understand the world totally in the chaotic post modern age.