The structural codes of metaphor in the visual arts
Abstract
At the core of this paper is a hermeneutic and transdisciplinary research on the concept of metaphor applied in the visual arts as an element of coding of meaningful relationships. The hypothesis of this paper anticipates that in the process of creating a work of art, metaphor has a multitude of structural functions through creative procedures in the construction of visual compositions and artistic narratives. Methodologically, the research intersects theories of metaphor as a method, of its hermeneutic function, of its openness, and of its denotative aspects. The theoretical aspects underline the essential properties of metaphor in the process of signification and contextual positioning in the realization of the poetic method, of its referentiality, of its category as a product of thought and as a formation of meanings, as a root metaphor, as an act of signifying and of interpretation, and as a symbol. The results show the realization of the poetic and creative function of metaphor through the context of discourse through the analysis and interpretation of Greek art (Minoan, Mycenaean, Classical, and Hellenistic) and of the hermeneutic reading of the works of Friedrich, Grosz, Hofer, Picasso, Kandinsky, Klein, Warhol, Baldessari, Gillick, and others. The outcome of the research leads to new conclusions about the function of metaphor that enrich the history of art with new theoretical points.
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References
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- Baldessari, J. (2007). Conversation. Again the Metaphor Problem and Other Engaged Critical Discourses about Art: A Conversation Between John Baldessari, Liam Gillick, and Lawrence Weiner, moderated by Beatrix Ruf. Springer-Verlag/Wien and Authors.
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Visual Arts (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Early Pub Date
August 8, 2026
Publication Date
-
Submission Date
March 29, 2026
Acceptance Date
August 3, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Number: Advanced Online Publication