The Visual Realm: Ownership and Expression

Objective:

Students will be able to analyze the concept of ownership in the visual realm and express their opinions about advertising and public space.

Warm Up:

1. What do you think about advertisements in public spaces, like billboards or bus stops?
2. Should advertisements be allowed in public spaces at all? Why or why not?
3. How do you feel about the idea of altering or defacing advertisements? Is it a form of self-expression or vandalism?

Key Vocabulary:

• Visual Realm: The space around us that includes all things we can see, such as images, signs, and advertisements.
• Deface: To damage or spoil the surface or appearance of something, often in a public space.
• Advertising: The activity of producing advertisements to promote goods or services.
• Public Space: Areas that are open and accessible to all people, such as streets, parks, and plazas.
• Consumerism: The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers, often linked to the culture of buying goods and services.

The Visual Realm: Ownership and Expression

Here’s an interesting idea: I believe that no one owns the visual realm, so we shouldn't have to pay for advertising. The visual realm includes everything we see around us, from the colorful murals on city walls to the ads plastered on buses. Since we all share this space, it raises the question: Should anyone have the right to control what we see?

Imagine walking down a busy street filled with billboards. Each ad tries to grab your attention, telling you what to buy and how to live. But what if these ads are not just for businesses? What if they were altered by artists or everyday people expressing their thoughts? This idea suggests that the visual realm should be open for everyone to share their voice, not just large corporations.

Some people argue that advertisements should not be seen at all. They believe that public space should be free from commercial messages, allowing for a more peaceful and less distracting environment. Without constant advertisements, individuals could focus more on their surroundings and engage meaningfully with their communities.

Additionally, if advertisements are to exist, should they not be free? This raises the question of whether companies should pay to occupy public space with their messages. If advertising was free, it could open up opportunities for local artists and community messages, promoting creativity and connection rather than consumerism.

The concept of defacing advertisements might sound extreme at first. It could be seen as vandalism, a crime that destroys property. However, some argue that it can be a form of art and self-expression. When someone paints over a billboard, they might be making a statement about consumerism or social issues. This act could spark conversations among people about the messages we receive every day.

As you ponder these ideas, think about your surroundings. What messages do you see daily? Which ones resonate with you, and which do you wish to change or eliminate? The visual realm is a canvas for all, and understanding how we interact with it can help shape our society.

Questions:

• What is your opinion on the idea that no one owns the visual realm?
• Should advertisements be allowed in public spaces? Why or why not?
• Do you think defacing advertisements can be a valid form of expression? Why or why not?
• Would a world without advertisements be better or worse? Explain your reasoning.

Writing Prompt:

Write a paragraph expressing your thoughts on whether advertisements should be allowed in public spaces at all, or if they should be free. Support your opinion with examples and reasons.

Standards Covered:

• Indiana Writing Standard 8.1: Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts.
• Indiana Writing Standard 8.4: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.