Peircean semiotics applied to signage

analysis of a totem sign on the UFSC Florianópolis campus

Abstract

Through Charles Sanders Peirce’s semiotic theory, this article investigates one of the signs in the signage system on the Florianópolis campus of the Federal University of Santa Catarina, reflecting on its significance. Based on observation and consideration of the material and formal factors of the object’s aesthetics, its visual values are investigated, taking into account the analysis of signs. The relationship between aesthetic maintenance and the symbolic interpretation of the sign as part of the institution is discussed, considering its state of conservation. Thus, the study emphasizes aesthetic vision as an agent in the usability and integration of signage design products as symbolic components of an environment. The analysis identified the object’s weaknesses and subjectivities, reinforcing the importance of the field of semiotics as a resource for contributing to reflections during the development of signage systems.