TOW #11 - National Geographic Jane Goodall (visual text)

This image was taken by a national geographic photographer and pictured is anthropologist, Jane Goodall. In this image she is reaching out to a baby chimpanzee. She is dressed in typical safari attire, khaki shirt and shorts. The image was taken at the perspective of seeing more of the back of Goodall's head but the face of chimpanzee. They are both reaching out to one another. Both the subjects of this photo are in focus but the background is not.
By analyzing the setup and context of this issue a few meanings can be extracted. One observed meaning is that of two worlds coming together. Goodall studies humans and primates and this image depicts both coming into contact. There are studies that humans have evolved from apes and it is as if in this image these two very similar creations are connecting over mutual genetic make ups. Another meaning depicted by this image is that of humans respecting that they share this world with animals. Animals are just as important to this world as humans and both can benefit the other. Humans must respect their fellow living creature and Goodall clearly acknowledges and respects that for in this image she is reaching out to a creature for whom she respects and admires.
The audience of this image I believe is humans as a whole. To make them aware and also fascinated by the ways humans and animals can interact. While yes many wild animals are dangerous because they have the natural instincts to attack the unknown (humans) there are also animals for whom we do not need to be afraid. Goodall exhibits that sometimes they are just as curious as we are and that communication can be possible and teach us more about our fellow inhabitants of this planet.

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/125/national-geographic-memorable-moments/#/7