For many artists, creating a piece is an intuitive process, guided by emotion, inspiration, or a desire to tell a story.
If you’ve ever thought about the meaning of the symbols in your art, then keep reading.
Think of yourself as an archeologist finding an ancient artefact
Get a pen and paper ready, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the layers of your artwork why you created it.
Identify Core Themes and Emotions
We’ve all been there before, working on a piece, questioning if the various elements align with the concept at large. In these fleeting moments of introspection, ask yourself.
What inspired this piece
What emotions was I feeling during its creation?
Are there broader narratives or ideas I wanted to explore?
Examine the Elements and Motifs
Take a closer look at the individual components of your piece:
Colours: What moods or ideas do they evoke? For instance, blue might symbolise calm or sadness, while red often represents passion or danger.
Shapes and Forms: Are there geometric patterns or flowing lines? Circles might suggest unity, while jagged edges can imply tension.
Objects or Figures: Do specific elements carry cultural or personal significance? A key might symbolise unlocking potential, while a bird could represent freedom.
Cultural and Personal Symbolism
Symbolism can be found in a magnitude of ways. Many are deeply rooted in personal traditions and experiences. To better understand your choices:
Research how similar motifs have been used in mythology, history, or literature.
Reflect on your personal connection to these symbols
A tree in your work might represent family roots or personal growth.
Explore the Role of Negative Space
Sometimes, what’s not in the artwork is just as important as what is.
Negative space can signify absence, stillness, or mystery. Take a closer look at how the empty areas of your composition interact with its visual elements to result in a more cohesive creation. The result would be lend itself to gently nudging the viewer in the right direction.
Deconstruct Layers of Meaning
To find the depth of your piece, consider how different elements interact. I often like to place a then sheet of tracing paper over my artwork, and circle the important sections. Although subjective, it’s always a good idea to find the range of your message and tone, and expand of decompress the radius.
Are there contrasts that create tension or balance?
Do certain colours or forms dominate, and what might that signify?
Is there a narrative or sequence suggested by the composition?
For instance, a juxtaposition of light and shadow could symbolise the duality of hope and despair, while ascending shapes might imply growth or aspiration.
Seek Feedback and Perspectives
Sometimes, the meaning of your work becomes clearer through others’ eyes. Share your piece with trusted peers or mentors and ask:
What emotions or ideas does this evoke for you?
Are there elements you find particularly symbolic or meaningful?
Their interpretations can offer valuable insights, revealing layers of symbolism you may not have considered.
Symbolism to Refine Your Message
Once you’ve uncovered the symbolism in your work, think about how it aligns with your intended message. Are there ways to emphasise or clarify these meanings?
Adjust colours or shapes to make key symbols more prominent.
Incorporate subtle motifs to add complexity without overwhelming the composition.
Consider titles or descriptions that guide viewers toward your intended interpretation.
Document Your Symbolism
Keep a journal or portfolio with notes on the symbolic choices in your pieces. Over time, patterns might emerge, offering insights into your artistic voice and evolution. This documentation can also help you articulate your work’s meaning during exhibitions, interviews, or critiques.
Understanding Your Symbols
Deconstructing your art to uncover its symbolism is not only about understanding your work better; it’s about deepening your connection to your creative process.
Each symbol, whether intentional or intuitive, tells a story — your story.
By exploring these layers, you’ll find new dimensions, transforming your art into a powerful vessel for meaning and connection.
So, the next time you create, take a moment to step back, reflect, and ask yourself: What story am I telling, and what symbols will carry it forward?
