Implicit Messages Lesson #3 – New France

Implicit Messages The 5 "W" Questions focus on the obvious interpretation of the drawings. The implicit, or disguised, message reveals the artist's values and attitudes towards the figures and events in the drawing. Every time we look at something, it is always from a "point of view." Take a look at the pictures on the next page, you can see how the image changes quite a bit from the two different points of view.

What is happening in this picture? What about this picture? As another example, consider a sporting event. How do you know who the home team fans are? How do you know who the fans of the opposition are? What about this picture?

Point of View When an artist draws a picture, it is from a particular point of view. Consider the following two titles for the image: A Jesuit Preaching to the Indians. The Algonquin allow the priest to explain his religion What is the difference in point of view?

Point of View Evidence Inference What does that mean? The dominant point of view of the drawing is the: European perspective Evidence The sole priest is the dominant figure in the picture The action revolves around the priest; the aboriginal people are just listening The dark robe draws attention to the priest What does that mean?

Character Traits Inference Evidence Priest is moving Priest is bold Looking at the character traits of the priest and Aboriginals can add to our evidence: Inference Priest is moving Priest is bold Priest is determined Priest is charismatic Aboriginals are passive Aboriginals are awed Aboriginals are attentive Aboriginals are being influenced Evidence action of picture revolves around priest only European in picture he has a serious look on his face looks like the Aboriginals are listening they are sitting/standing still seem glued to his every word staring intently at the priest not objecting or asking questions

Symbolic Meaning Inference Evidence When creating a drawing, an artist may also include a symbolic message, showing that the image symbolizes a larger issue (i.e., good vs evil, courage, struggle, etc). Evidence The cross (symbolizes Christianity) high above the heads of everyone Aboriginal people seem accepting There are many Aboriginal people and only one priest Aboriginal clothing leaves most of the body uncovered Inference Bringing Christianity to the Aboriginals Lone voice of morality among the “uncivilized” Indians

Implicit Messages Chart Similar to the last chart, the following chart handout allows us to record information about a picture.  This time we were looking at what the image implied, instead of what it showed.  In your same groups, with the pictured you used for the last chart complete an Implicit messages chart