Uncovering history as well as displaying statistics is really challenging and tricky, since traditionally both of them are associated with something boring and insipid that no one loves. However, it is hard to deny that we prefer visual over text, so why not turn this inclination into an advantage and reveal a series of facts and past events in a visually-appealing, engaging and alluring way thereby making a journey through history/story a really enjoyable and rewarding pastime. Besides, you do not have to reinvent the wheel, the solution is already here: visual storytelling is considered to be a new language for effectively and attractively communicating information.
The approach involves the utilization of modern techniques such as parallax scrolling or lazy loading animations that bring to life fascinating and impressive scenes built with the help of different themes and styles. There are no hard and fast rules: thus, websites that reveal history can be executed in a modern flat style or can be populated with glossy vector graphics, there is no obligation to bear a nostalgic feeling at all in order to become a masterpiece and draw attention.
Want to see firsthand? Then explore our list that contains 10 informative and captivating visual storytelling online projects.
Telling a Story Online
Le Monde
Haute couture lovers, behold, we have found a really awe-inspiring online project for satisfying your fashion cravings. Want to become a part of this lavish, motley and sophisticated world then you need to be perfectly aware of its rich past, so why not begin your acquaintance with a colorful history of catwalk shows. The website traces history from the mid-19th century to present day, recreating a really amazing atmosphere through mind-blowing old photos, striking illustrations and a retro color palette.
25 Years of the Internet
The website design stands in stark contrast to the previous example with its modern, clean, neat, digital-like appearance accomplished through flat graphics, terminal style typography and plain monochrome backgrounds. Everything is based on a horizontal timeline driven by parallax effect.
The project highlights groundbreaking events and significant happenings starting from the invention of the first website and ending up with the breakthrough of mobile web.
In Charted Waters
This website design is reminiscent of one of the movies about pirates. The powerful adventure theme runs through the whole project. The design aesthetics are simply fascinating thanks to harmonious symbiosis of old-aged paper textures, magnificent sketch elements, amazing maritime ornaments and elegant typography. As you have already noticed the website is somehow connected with maps; and it is very true. The project is aimed at uncovering a long process of studying the geography of our world, enticing you into a truly fascinating journey.
Celebrate Design
The project is dedicated to AIGA that turns 100 this year. Being an integral part of American design, it is no wonder that the celebratory website meets current web trends and requirements: the team goes for the flat style that easily provides a really neat and delicate appearance as well as using vertical parallax that demonstrates interesting facts in an enjoyable way. Here you will find interviews with leading artists, selected artworks and key moments that all together form one colorful, captivating and enthralling story. It is an excellent guide for every amateur designer.
Computing History
We have already examined the history of the internet, so now it is time to find out the long story of technological advancement that has blessed us with computers, notebooks, tablets and smartphones.
Unlike the majority of examples, the story begins with the current year (in this case 2010) and goes a long way down until the late 50s vividly showcasing milestones of this time span. Every event is beautifully reflected through nifty flat style illustrations placed on a vibrant solid color backdrop.
A Formula 1 History
The website has a bright, energetic and sparkling design that ideally establishes the same powerful and spirited atmosphere as any Formula 1 event can boast. As usual, flat style illustrations help to steal the show. The team has succeeded in conveying elegance, speed, power and beauty inherent to these small yet furious cars.
The project sheds light on what and who have managed to earn a place in Formula 1 history, representing each pair through highly-detailed colorful and incredible illustrations.
Slam Dunk History
As the name implies we are going to delve into the history of the competition dedicated to the most impressive and crowd-pleasing type of basketball shots – slam dunk. The story features 7 winners, each of which is presented via mind-blowing illustrations.
Flat Guitars
Those who want to rock this world should definitely take a glance at this online project. It serves as some kind of a guiding light when you are running out of inspiration. The design team has done a really great job of compiling dozens of unique guitars each of which is presented through splendid, highly-detailed flat style illustration. You will be also able to familiarize yourself with a short story of each item, its key features and the place where you can buy it.
Wrist
This is an incredible, regularly updated project that every artist will find interesting, beneficial and inspirational. The author shares with the world his explorations of typography, color and mechanic features inherent to different watches. He publishes animated illustrations of various chronometers that have been planned down to the last detail.
WorldCup Matchballs
The FIFA World Cup Tournament takes place every 4 years, and there are always new sites popping up in connection with the event. The huge sportive event that took place in Brazil this year is over, and we congratulate Germany for their convincing victory, they definitely left their mark in football history. Want to know who else has managed to do this? Then explore this website that highlights World Cup matchballs. The project is wisely based on vertical parallax that helps to unobtrusively guide visitors from 30s to present day. Each event is marked by a flat style illustration of the official ball.
Conclusion
Visual storytelling is a powerful instrument for grabbing attention. Even boring pieces of history can be easily transformed into really entertaining and memorable journeys through facts and events that not only effectively characterize a period of bygone times but also fill in the gaps in your knowledge.
