IMAGE MEANING & COMPOSITION

An example from one of my possessions that has value in both 'fine' and 'applied' design.

Subject: M15-A4 Tactical Carbine AIRSOFT Rifle.



Functionality - “having or serving a utilitarian purpose; capable of serving the purpose for which it was designed: functional architecture; a chair that is functional as well as decorative.”

It is safe to say that this product serves the one purpose in which it was designed for, shooting.
It has been fashioned and marketed as a piece of sports equipment, much like paint ball guns... but for a sport called “Airsoft”, which originates from Japan.
It takes 6mm plastic BBs and fires them at a rate of 350fps (feet per second) which is the legal limit in the UK.

Aesthetic Beauty - “pertaining to a sense of the beautiful or to the science of aesthetics.”

The realism of this rifle has been kept true, which I believe adds a lot of aesthetic beauty to this product. Not only are the markings and engravements on this piece 100% accurate, also are the materials that were used to make it. I can't think of anything that gives it away as an Airsoft piece... even the weight is spot on, apparently.

The sport itself has an enthusiastic military reenactment following, unlike paint ball. A lot of players show up in teams, all wearing the same uniforms or outfits and many go 'the full haul' with costumes, right down to the finest details on their chosen 'look'.

Communication - “what it does to expand your knowledge of yourself, your environment, world past, future.”

Playing this sport helps me keep kit, stay active, i get to meet new people and make new friends and it also raises awareness & knowledge about fire arms, the limits, laws and restrictions and also helps build responsibility.

Decorative/Entertainment Value - “the act of entertaining; agreeable occupation for the mind; diversion; amusement: Solving the daily crossword puzzle is an entertainment for many.”

I enjoy the sport of 'Airsoft' a great deal and every time i play, it takes me to a place where I have never been before. There are many different sites up and down the UK.


Photograph - "M15-A4 & Boots"
Gav Cooper - 2006

"Quotes"
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