Abstractions, Representations, and Symbols

This sex toy is an interesting take on an abstraction. The Lelo brand is inspired by the human body. This particular toy is curved and sized to not only fit nicely in the hand, but to mirror the external part of the vulva as well. The rounded edges remind us of the curve of the thigh or the "mound of Venus", while the fold in the middle remind us not only of the center of the vulva, but the other creases we see in, say, the arm or leg. By distilling the elements of the human body such as color or context for the above mentioned features, this toy is a wonderful abstraction of the human body.

The carpeting pictured here is a representation of a rock bed at the bottom of a river. The small, imperfect, rounded shapes make it clear to us that the designer is referencing pebbles or stones. Even further, the heather grey color not only reflects the color we see many stones in nature, but the little bits of lighter fabric seen if one looks closely resemble the variations of minerals we often see in stones. Becuase this materials was made to act as carpeting, we also see the stones where we would find them naturally, at the bottom of our feet.

This symbol, to an American, may look like a group of gifts. Others may see something completely different. The square shapes denoting boxes and lines with curves at the end symbolizing bows are very simplified versions of said objects. If it wasn't for our cultural knowledge of wrapping gifts in such a way, one may not understand what this image is symbolizing. Because this way of wrapping presents is not consistent throughout the world, these symbols are meaningless to some, but very clear to others.