Semiotic Analysis

Vaseline Paint the Town Red avert

This image shows an advertisement of the latest Vaseline product. It shows a combination of dripping paint in a city skyline, which is an upgraded version of the traditional vaseline tin. The tin overlays the background image of flowing paint, the vibrant red colour stands out well from the black background. 

Connotations are our learned associations, the denotations can lead to these connotations. 
This advert is clearly aimed at women consumers who are obsessed with the latest beauty products and trends. The colours of this advert create an alluring and provocative tone, this is because the colours black and red immediately signify a captivating tone. The advert 
persuades the consumers that this new product is a cosmetic necessity, therefore the choice of colours are suitable as it lures the target audience into reading and acknowledging the product. This magazine advertisement also includes text, this is provoking the consumer more in to buying this product as the short portion of text emphasises the fact that the product is a 'must have' edition, and it is exclusive. Without the text, the denotations of the image wouldn't be as obvious despite the sultry colour palette, as the colours are the most significant denotations within this design. 
The overall imagery of this design is effective, as the design has been kept simple yet it still portrays a strong image. The specific use of colour communicates the idea of passionate beauty and maintenance effectively. The bold splash of red paint in the background is another important denotation as the striking colour emphasises this tone even further and it enables the main part of the design (the vaseline tin) to stand out well. The use of type works well with this icon, as there advertisement does not overwhelm the audience with information, but it suggests the messages that are needed to be portrayed within the design.
Certain denotations of this design could change the meaning. For example, different contexts can change the meaning. The paint within this design could suggest smothering, as it is pouring over the page, however the message that it is trying to perceive includes positivity and adding a 'hint of colour' to the consumers. 
A key code within this design is that the beauty consumers of today are slaves to the latest trends and products. The colours emphasise this as it shows that the messages they portray are what the target audience will respond to. This connects with the whole theme of luring the consumer into the product and the choice of colour attracting the audience.