~ conceptualising sketches of possible banners/flags ~
exploring different formats to present text within, i came across banners/flags and was drawn in by their declarative and authoritative tone. the rich historical usage of flags/banners from all corners of the world gives the composition an icon status, enabling a large range of viewers to share a certain understanding of the work prior to any extra information being shared.
a banner can be a flag or other shape of cloth bearing a symbol, logo, slogan or other message. banner-making is considered an ancient craft, paying respect to a noble family or the church. the word is derived from the french word ‘banniere’ and the late latin word ‘bandum’ . the german language evolved the word to mean an official edict (an offical order or proclamation issued by a person in authority). bandum assumed the meaning of ban , control, interdict or excommunication. abandon means to change loyalty or disobey orders, semantically “to leave the cloth of flag”.
a flag is a piece of fabric, usually rectangular with a distinctive design and colours. used as a symbol, a signalling device or decoration. flags have evolved into a tool for rudimentary signalling and identification in environments where communication is difficult. the study of flags is known as “vexillology” from the latin word vexillum meaning flag/banner. flags can be symbols of patriotism. the general parts of a flag are: canton (the upper inner section of the flag), field or ground (the entire flag except the canton), the hoist (the edge used to attach the flag) and the fly (the furthest edge from the hoist end.)
- a heraldic banner, also called a banner of arms displays the basic coat of arms. they are commonly square or rectangular.
- christian banners are mainly used for processions, used to communicate the testimony of jesus christ by evangelists and public ministers engaging in open air preaching. decorative in a typical religious sense, using gold to portray divinity and detailed designs to announce the church’s social position.
- advertising banners fabricated commercially on a plastic background, developing from the traditional cut-vinyl banners to ones printed on larger, ultra-wide inkjet printer on various fabrics using solvent inks and ultraviolet-curable inks. used to market towards potential audiences.
