The CODE-X series catalogs a vast codex of source codes (aka “signs”) extracted from past audits.

The object of study in semiotics is not the signs but rather a general theory of signification; the goal of each “audit” is to build a model demonstrating how meaning is produced and received within a category or cultural territory. Signs on their own, therefore, only become truly revelatory and useful once we’ve sorted them into thematic complexes, and the complexes into codes, and the codes into a meaning map. We call this process “thick description”; the Code-X series is thin description.

“NICE & EASY” NORM: Living (and depicting) a complication-free life.

“NICE & EASY” FORMS: Figuratively, depictions of a “simple” life… Real-world scenarios “translated” into more simple versions — e.g., edible DIY tiny versions of pizza, hot dogs, other foods. Literally, a simplified, abstracted aesthetic that can take various forms: videogames and movies referencing old-school animation effects such a Claymation, puppetry, cutout animation, etc.; hand-drawn animation that preserves the texture of the original art; doodles; and so forth.

From a 2024 analysis of the IN HERE territory (cozy, safe, familiar; offering a much-needed refuge from “adulting”) within the space of “sophisticated wholesome” videogames, animated movies and series, etc.