Theseus’ Paradox is the starting point for a body of research into the material, iconic, and trace components of an image. By exploring two distinct images, the differentiating elements of each image are assessed and applied toward new symbolic representations of each. This process of abstraction moves from the photographic, through the visually symbolic, and arrives at the doorstep of language—without ever employing the use of letter forms.
What this research reveals is to be considered in relationship to the differential aspect of language—specifically, the written word. The visual qualities inherent an images appear to have great durability in retaining signification, even as the elements are reduced, simplified, and manipulated. As the end results of this study should testify, this durability of the image’s signification—despite shifting connotations—can even go so far as to suggest language (each city’s name), so long as both image and word are familiar.
