reading blog #1

The Visual Literacy Article addresses how in contemporary society, the general public consumes visual media. The article states that image consumption is constant, persistent, and relentless in the way it is presented. The article states that, “the majority of people, however, being constantly bombarded by images does not necessarily lead to a conscious recognition…” in reference to how overwhelming this type of consumption can be. The author states that the primary purpose of visual literacy is to “formally train and empower people visually”. It is important to understand what exactly you are looking at as well as why you are seeing it. Explaining visual literacy is complex because it should be obvious. If seeing is believing, then how can what I see be fake? Especially when what I am seeing is something I chose (e.g. social media, entertainment). Education in schooling is intended to socialize, and therefore prepare youth to understand how to interact with the outside world. Visual literacy education is intended to do the same thing, but more specifically, modern society and how to learn along with the times. The author states in the conclusion of the article that, “Today, that future is our present: The communication and information revolution has brought about a rather imperialistic nature, visual culture. Those “future” needs are already here, undoubtedly imperative; moreover, they cannot be fulfilled solely on what the verbal-oriented, left-brained schooling and society has to offer”. The extreme emphasis on the importance of visual literacy is valuable to everyone in any stage of life. In my own life, I will look at visual literacy as a necessity, a right, and not a privilege.