david allio

Oranges | ©2013 David Allio

This semester, my Visual Arts studies at the Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) have included a concentration on symbolism. This has included extensive readings of scholarly writings and research in the applications and theories related to iconography and symbolism as communication in artworks.

After concentrated studies in the historic use of symbols in paintings, it has almost become second nature to question the real meaning of the contents of a photograph, sculpture, sketch, drawing, or painting. The discourse can become overwhelming and overflow into everyday life, to the point that common scenes prompt more research. To that end, as I glanced at these orange hulls on the counter-top, it became compelling to discover if a still life photograph of something so common could have any symbolic significance.

Using reference books by Steven Olderr on Symbolism[1] and Reverse Symbolism[2], it is noted that the color “orange” is associated with the number “one.” As a fruit, “orange” is symbolically used to communicate, among other things, life, fertility, chastity, and is an attribution to the Virgin Mary. Based on that consideration, is there any wonder then that the concept of content and communication in artworks is such a difficult and intricate study?

To me, the symbolic contents of this photograph communicates freshly squeezed orange juice!

[1] Olderr, Steven. 1986. Symbolism: a comprehensive dictionary. Jefferson, N.C.: McFarland.
[2] Olderr, Steven. 1992. Reverse symbolism dictionary: symbols listed by subject. Jefferson, N.C.: McFarland.