Which artwork category uses signs that represent other ideas or concepts?

The category of representational work is characterized by the use of signs and symbols to depict real-world subjects in recognizable forms. In representational art, artists often convey deeper meanings or concepts through recognizable figures, objects, or scenes, effectively communicating ideas that extend beyond mere visual depiction. This can include the use of symbolism, where certain elements are imbued with additional meaning, allowing the viewer to engage with the artwork on a conceptual level.

For instance, a still-life painting might include a skull to symbolize mortality, or flowers could represent beauty and the passage of time. This ability to use visual elements to signify broader themes is what distinguishes representational art.

Other categories like abstract art focus on non-representational forms and may not directly reference real-world subjects, while installation and performance art emphasize experiential or spatial contexts rather than purely representational or symbolic imagery.