Visual Rhetoric

I believe the visual aspect of rhetoric is best understood through digital media because interfaces, images, and movies undoubtedly carry an undercurrnet of connotative flavors and meanings. For instance, any political website -- pick any running candidate -- will contain images of patriotism: positive visuals that represent ideals and morals that a voter will most likely adhere to. Likeswise, the site may contain images of which oppose their competitors. These sites are most likely the best example because they often contain commercial advertisments that also contain heavy imagery such as images of war, poverty, and violence. All of these visuals are meant to evoke an emotional response in a person--most work subconciously without the viewer noticing. Through the combination of posittive or negative music coupled with these powerful images, most have no control over the emotional response that occurs. A simple picture of an American flag is a loaded message, especially if something is done do that image: an upside down American flag means something completely different. Ultimately, visual rhetoric is a powerful compliment with written rhetoric. This combination makes up the multimedia experience.