Speaking, Writing and Picturing

This research focuses on the boundary of images and text, and how iconicity, notational conventions and grapholinguistics influence our recognition and interpretation of graphic signs.

How does our language influence the way we think? Does writing present different challenges to speaking? Can we use pictures to overcome the limitations of words? How should we approach the ineffable, and everything that seems to be beyond words, such as art, aesthetics, and ethics?

We approach Wittgenstein's concept of "the limits of language", together with his practice of writing that includes pictures and diagrams, from the perspective of linguistics instead of the traditional approach from semiotics. Our outcomes therefore inform text and image representation in digital contexts, the philosophy of action and performance with words and images, non-linguistic communication, constructivism and phenomenology.