Stuart Hall's Representation theory explains how meaning is actively constructed through language, images and symbols rather than simply reflecting reality. It is useful towards understanding how media shapes perceptions and identities, particularly in relation to race, gender and class while providing aid in analysing how media contributes to the construction of social norms, influencing public opinion and behaviour.
Stuart Hall's Reception theory explains how media producers encode messages with intended meanings while audiences decode them in different ways (dominant, negotiated or oppositional), based on their social and cultural contexts. The practicality in this theory is found in different audiences adopting various interpretations, leading to a richer analysis of media reception.
My collage links to Stuart Hall’s Representation Theory by constructing a visual representation of my identity through personal interests and cultural influences. I included my hobbies of music, reading and textiles to represent what brings me inner happiness, while images of the Philippines reflect my heritage and its association with summer landscapes and the mountains which I am fortunate enough travel back to and embrace. Photographs of my family and friends signify the people I am closest to, while an album by The1975 represents my personal connection to music. I also included One Battle After Another, a film that has influenced my perspective through its meaningful insights, alongside ramen as a symbol of comfort and tranquillity. Overall, the collage demonstrates Hall’s idea that identity can be constructed and communicated through meaningful media language, imagery and codes.
Regarding Stuart Hall's Reception Theory, audiences can decode my self-representation through different readings. As a dominant/ preferred reading, viewers may connote the inclusivity of my family and friends to be affectionate and show how I value interpersonal relationships and cherish those close to me. Another preferred reading concerning the picture of books, the gallery and textiles can decode myself to audiences as creative, suggesting I have an admiration and appreciation towards art and literature. However, some may take on a negotiated reading as audiences may be unfamiliar with the film and narrative, unable to understand the personal significance I attach to the characters. Additionally, viewers may use an oppositional reading lens by questioning if my collage represents my entire identity or merely the version of myself which I wish to communicate.
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