Deconstructing the semiotic landscape: A visual research method

Abstract

This chapter presents a method for the visual deconstruction of landscape designs. The method employs a theoretical re-conceptualization of landscape representations as semiotic sign systems. The method deconstructs landscape designs by 1) analysing the qualities that are represented as icons, 2) the possible events or reasons why those qualities could occur as indices and 3) the connotations that particular icons and indices could give rise to as symbols. Following this method one can 'read' more from the same image and anticipate a possible range of misinterpretations.