Is Canada going down the slopes?
by Jackson
Of all the possible imagery the Federal Government could have chosen for the cover of the speech from the throne, they chose the worst picture possible.
bad choice
Why would anyone in their right mind choose a picture of tobogganing for the cover of a speech about economic recovery? By choosing a photograph of a sport where people willingly throw themselves down a hill at high-speed, sometimes with bumps along the way, the designers of this cover inextricably linked the report with the idea of decline.
There are countless other images that could have worked. Winter is almost over, they could have used a springtime image. Spring is all about rebirth and renewal. A budding plant is a great visual metaphor. Someone tending a garden or planting a field would have worked just fine.
Even a cover without a photograph would probably have been better.
hahahaha hilarious!
You already know how funny I think this is. I sent your post to my Creative Director Tony, his comments back to me: “I agree, but he misses the point. The Conservatives use imagery that reinforces THEIR vision of Canada: A hearty nation in which cherub-faced white male Christian children enjoy winter sports. Sure we’re a multicultural, multiracial, largely agnostic nation of city dwellers … but that doesn’t fit with THEIR vision. Moreover, using “green” imagery that doesn’t involve a John Deer tractor and a field of ADM-engineered wheat won’t cut it either.”
Tony is right, and he makes a really good point.
The Conservatives are projecting the image of what they stand to protect and conserve. In that sense this is a pretty powerful image. This image is a flag. It calls for a regroupment, a rallying of the troups. The use of this type of dividing image (although not as extreme as some) is meant, as Tony says, to speak to people who share their vision.
A divisive tenor is a part of the factionalism of Canadian politics, where divergent regional interests take precedence over coordinated responses to the greatest need. It is also the most fascinating thing about this image. We are increasingly living in a country where a white boy on a sled doesn’t represent everyone. In the abscence of a national racial and cultural ideal, where do we find images that do speak to everyone?
Did I mention that I just came back from Quebec city? I find it funny how closely Conservative imagery resembles seperatist.
p.s. When I’m taking pot-shots at the Conservatives I’m preaching to the crowd too.
Conservatives *are* separatists.
I bet all this discussion stems from someone in the communications office wanting to use a photo of their kid. To think, it all could’ve been avoided by using a photo of a crocus.
Ha ha, I love that post Jackson.
Conservatives *are* separatists.
I bet all this discussion stems from someone in the communications office wanting to use a photo of their kid. To think, it all could’ve been avoided by using a photo of a crocus.
totally!
always my favourite, and perhaps a better choice?
http://broadcastthis.files.wordpress.com/2008/1…
“clawing our way out of fiscal uncertainty.”
how could I forget that instant classic!
Another example of a…um…questionable photo choice:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tHyVWN_FhI0/S5Zpya6Pa…
oh good grief!
Another example of a…um…questionable photo choice:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tHyVWN_FhI0/S5Zpya6Pa…
oh good grief!