SYMBOLS

A symbol represents an idea by using an image or sign which by agreement is linked to a specific meaning. Its aim is to transmit ideas.

A shape, an animal, a utensil, a colour can all be used to explain a thought. In an agreed manner, a group can understand the meaning of simple stripes drawn in a specific position or the meaning of a snake, for example.

There are cases where the same symbol can have different meanings in different cultures or at different times. The example proposed above may be one of the most paradigmatic ones we can find. For the Egyptian culture the figure of the snake used to be associated with some gods and the symbol formed by two snakes represents the communion between the superior self and the inferior self. Chinese culture believes that most of its qualities are positive and it is considered as the bearer of divine wisdom. In Celtic culture the snake is often associated with the gifts of healing. In contrast, the Christian religion takes the snake as a negative symbol of betrayal and temptation. The Jewish religion also considers it a threatening animal and a bearer of death.

This series is a selection of symbols photographed over many years in different countries.

Usually the symbols are found in places such as churches, big monuments, emblematic buildings … but surprisingly, many photographs have been taken in places where there was apparently no need for any kind of symbolism. It is incredible how many symbolic messages can be seen in the most unlikely places and apparently without any symbolic information.

MEASUREMENTS: 40 X 40 cm
NUMBER OF IMAGES: 15 (in progress)
40 x 40 copies on paper 50 x 60
Hahnemühle matte paper. Giclée copy