McCloud's concept of amplification through simplification

McCloud makes mention of an intriguing concept called “amplification through simplification” in reference to sequential images and cartoons. In our class discussions we viewed several pieces that exemplified many of McCloud’s concepts however the idea of amplification through simplification was especially inspiring to me. McCloud describes the concept of amplification through simplification as a way of taking an abstract image, symbol, or figure, such as in cartoons and using the complexities or non-complexities of that image in a way that is representative of something more specific and descriptive. To simplify, McCloud makes the statement that “by stripping down an image to essential ‘meaning’ an artist can amplify that meaning.”

Last week we looked at a sequence of images online entitled “Bright Morning Blue.” I saw this not only as a wonderful progression of images to tell a story but a marvelous example of amplification through simplification because Jason Turner was able to tell a story using extremely small and simple images. All of us have had a morning similar to what was drawn, making these images familiar and almost sentimental in a way. Turner’s use of text or the lack there of puts a large emphasis on a recurring theme (alarm) which amplifies the images that surround it. Each image in all of its simplicity represent something greater, something that is abstract and recognizable by all of us; a dream that we wish to never wake from.

Secondly, I believe strong elements of amplification through simplification were evident in“Rice.” I was immediately captured by the picture of the Vietnamese boy in the towards the bottom left of the page. “Rice” itself is almost a collage of real images, and the expression on the boys’ face is almost haunting in a way, so I clicked on it first. Within that are a series of images that seem unrelated but really spark my curiosity. I knew that these images, though simple and unrelated represented a story or event in some way. A few clicks later a story emerged through an associated text-image click through. I saw this as a great example of amplification through simplification because even just a picture of a human face as simple as it may be can evoke strong feelings.

Ultimately, amplification through simplification plays a huge role in sequential imaging because it teaches us that sometimes a long drawn out dialogue or text isn’t always necessary in telling a story. “Bright Morning Blue” and “Rice” do a great job of this. McCloud’s concept will definitely stick with me when I set out to accomplish project 2.