Representation matrix
This original ICU diagram separates site-specific/generalized from measured/interpretive tendencies. It is a teaching device, not a scientific taxonomy.
Observation · structure · variation · process · representation · evidence
Representation / visual literacy
A representation is an argument about what matters. Spring can be pictured as diagnostic plant structure, a modeled surface, a dated field note, or an expressive landscape — and each form carries different evidence.
This original ICU diagram separates site-specific/generalized from measured/interpretive tendencies. It is a teaching device, not a scientific taxonomy.
Smithsonian Gardens distinguishes botanical illustration’s emphasis on scientific accuracy from botanical art’s emphasis on expression.
Source: Smithsonian Gardens · supported referenceA gridded spring index can reveal spatial pattern and timing estimates. The visual power of a map does not turn model output into direct observation.
Source: USA National Phenology Network · supported referenceThe National Gallery of Art catalogs Berthe Morisot’s Spring Landscape (c. 1890/1891) and marks its media as free and in the public domain. This release links to the object record instead of copying the image.
Source: National Gallery of Art · supported referenceRights-aware path
The Library of Congress maintains a “Free to Use and Reuse” cherry-blossom collection. Spring Universe links to that curated rights-aware entry point rather than pulling an unattributed image from general web search.
Source: Library of Congress · supported reference