Q: "An older man is trying to figure out what a sewing machine is." Does this mean that "The gentleman wants to learn how to use a sewing machine."?
A: it is not possible to tell

Q: "A man performs at a concert." Does this mean that "A human performing"?
A: yes

Q: "A man with his jacket hood up sits on a machine." Does this mean that "The man is in the gym."?
A: it is not possible to tell

Q: "a boy pours water on another boy." Does this mean that "Both of the boys are about to get wet"?
A:
it is not possible to tell