2)+Visual+Literacy

Assignment #2: Visual Literacy- Commentary on the Overproteined Graphic

I do not think that the “Overproteined” graphic is effective. The images used are too nice, the word "overprotiened" is too small, and the colors scheme is not fitting to the message. Through use of ACE and PAT, I will critique the graphic and tell of the changes I would make.

Using ACE, I would analyze the information. Seeing that the title of the graphic is “Overproteined.” I would summate that viewer should walk away with a negative feeling, reflect on their own eating habits, and opt to eat less protein. Next, I would create a graphic using PAT.

Perception- I would list the title, “Overproteined,” on the top of the page in letters that go across the entire chart. Hierarchicly, it should be visible at the top, and, regarding gestalt, the fact that it is as wide as the rest of the chart signifies its importance. I then list the boxes so that they go down the page vertically, taking up equal space.

Actions- The boxes would two colors, alternated each box (ie; white, grey, white, grey. I would add contrast by alternating where the graphics go (ie; graphics in grey boxes go on the right, graphics in white boxes go on the left): This means that there would be repetition of only two box designs, adding similarity throughout.

Tools- The type on the original is fine, as is the color of the font. I would use less “happy” colors for the box backrounds. Between the picture of the chick and pastels, it looks like an Easter add. The space is fine, but the shape is wrong: The outline shape would be a rectangle that is about twice as tall as it is wide, with the internal text boxes being spaced equally, wider than they are tall. My biggest criticism is the choice of graphics. When trying to get across the message that Americans eat too much protein, there should be less pleasant images. For example, instead of using a cartoon hamburger, show a huge, double pattied, ridiculously oversized burger. Instead of a cartoon hotdog, show a table totally covered in hotdogs, like they have at the Nathan’s Hotdog competition. Instead of a cartoon chick, show a close-up of that KFC bucket, brimming with deep-fried chicken: These images should “pop” to the viewer of the ad. With the words being basic text, having real pictures adds texture and dimension to the ad, really getting the point across.