Use of Graphics in TheStoryofStuff.com
Using cartoon animation helps to simplify the unpleasant subject of consumerism. Annie Leonard, the narrator, is isolated at the bottom of the movie screen, for each of the chapters. She appears on the "cinema screen," standing below the animated movie, as she explains each process of consumerism. This animation and real-life person narration on the same "cinema screen" provides contrast.
The color of the site/pages has a monochromatic color scheme, with shades and tints of gray, matching the animated graphics, which are done in black sketch. This minimalism directs the attention of the viewer to the information within the site, rather than to distracting graphics.
There are just a few splashes of color evident:
blue-for rollovers and the background of certain links, signifying a universal appeal because of its association with the sky and the sea-it conveys a sense of stability and clarity of purpose,
yellow-to highlight the rollover for the navigational links and to highlight the award that the site received,
and green-for the recycling icons, signifying nature.
Jade Tate
CMS 3710
Updated: 10 November 2008