Umbrella Movement Analysis

Visual communication is a means of connection between audiences and messages. The picture about Umbrella Movement took on 28 September 2014 will be utilized as the example to show how images sharing ideas in personal, historical and critical perspectives. This paper argues that images can exchange thoughts and message through visual elements.

In personal perspectives, image convey information directly toward audiences, causing audiences have a preliminary and subjective view. I like the picture about Umbrella Movement because it touches me deeply at first sight. I get a message in this photo about firm conviction under the power of oppression in violence. The picture indicates a protester stands amidst tear gas and holds up two black umbrellas
The former is powerful who fire tear gas upon the crowds for suppression, while the latter is helpless and unarmed who can only passively defend with an umbrella. The riot policeman is distinctly superior to the protectors, leading audiences sense that protesters party is doomed. Yet, a fearless man, who wearing safety goggles, hands up umbrellas in this choking smoke and chaos situation. Obviously, umbrellas cannot stop the stimulating gas emitted by tear gas. The protector holds up two black umbrellas instead of using a weapon to fight back shows that he is rational and willing to convey his quest for liberty in a peaceful way. He makes a silent protest of a pursuit of democracy and the complaint of policeman's violent clearance. His action is a kind of resistance to an authoritarian system, highlight the pro-democracy protester's aspiring spirit, perseverance, will, and firm conviction when they facing an obstacle and the oppression of authority. Audiences may encourage and empower to speak out without fear when watching this inspiring picture. The contrast between two sides also raises audience empathy towards
The photo raises the question about whether the demonstrators have drastic action or the policemen have too much authority. Audiences may reflect the issue about how to strike the right balance between civil liberties and public security. In the ideal case, both civil liberties and public security has reached an equilibrium point. Citizens can enjoy the freedom of assembly and politic, which lead them to have the power to restrict government abusing power. They have right to express political ideas, even is to dissent the government's proposal. While the government also has set a restriction on civil liberties to ensure the public security. Yet, the picture.shows the imbalances between civil liberties and public security. The protesters seem to get an irrational repression from policemen. It is understandable that it is the policemen duty to disperse the demonstrators, as the protesters have held an unlawful assembly. Their action violates the rule of law and affects other road users. However, it is doubtful that the means of dispersion is too violent and policemen may use too much force than required level. In the picture, it is clear to see that the protesters only carry umbrellas as well as wear mask or use plastic wrap to cover body. Their ability to attack and cause damage is limited.