Culture Jammer Ad: Questions

1.  What company does the advertisement represent/subvert?

This advertisement is subverting Apple Inc.

2.  What kind of product(s) is being advertised? 

            An iPad is being “advertised”.

3.  What imagery is used in the advertisement to subvert?

A sad-eyed and extremely malnourished African child is cleverly placed to the right of the “thinner than ever” iPad.

4.  What message (text, copy) is used in the advertisement? 

            The text “Thinner than ever” appears in the centre of the advertisement.

5.  How are the elements and principles of design used to convey a message?

            I believe the most powerful factors in this advertisement are the colors used. The classic white background and grey font—Apple’s signature combination—are a visual hook for the viewer; immediately one assumes that it is America’s top smartphone manufacturer. The iPad is held by a Caucasian hand (symbolizing rich American consumers) while the small boy (encompassing third-world workers) is black. 

6.  Who is the target audience of the advertisement?

            I believe this advertisement targets those who feel the need to stay constantly “up-to-date” in regards to purchasing the latest Apple products.     

7.  Does the ad jam convey a clear and successful message?

            I suppose this ad jam could be taken in different ways, but it really spoke to me as soon as I saw it. All of my Apple products are at least five years old, and I really don’t understand why one should buy new iPads, iPhones, etc. when the first are in good condition

8.  How could the ad jam be improved?

            To be honest, I don’t think I would change anything about this ad jam. Its beauty is its simplicity!

1.  What company does the advertisement represent/subvert?

This advertisement is subverting Malboro, a cigarette manufacturer.

2.  What kind of product(s) is being advertised? 

            Cigarettes are being “advertised”.

3.  What imagery is used in the advertisement to subvert?

The entire advertisement’s background features a photograph of a full cemetery.

4.  What message (text, copy) is used in the advertisement? 

            The text “Welcome to Malboro Country” appears in the top right of the advertisement.

5.  How are the elements and principles of design used to convey a message?

             I think that, firstly, perspective and line are important elements in ensuring that the cemetery looks “chock-full”. As well, color plays a significant role; the red writing stands out well against the green meadows, as it is its complimentary color.

6.  Who is the target audience of the advertisement?

            This advertisement, I think, targets both those who smoke and those who are tempted to start with an innocent purchase of cigarettes.

7.  Does the ad jam convey a clear and successful message?

            Absolutely. I do not see any way in which this ad jam could be taken in a way other than its intent.

8.  How could the ad jam be improved?

            Once again, I do not think there is anything in this ad jam that should be changed. It is blatant and wonderful.