Objective
The postcard journey gives uncertain visitors a guided entry into the archive, but it should not be the only way to access the stories. Some users may want to browse openly, return to a story or compare several entries. The objective of the gallery was to provide this freedom while keeping the collection visually connected to the mailbox metaphor.
Process Breakdown
Moving Away from a Database List
I did not want the archive to appear as rows of text or generic cards. Instead, approved stories are represented through envelopes, postcards and letter-like objects. This makes the collection feel like accumulated correspondence rather than a technical database.
Creating a Sense of Discovery
Each gallery item reveals only part of its information before it is opened. This preserves a small element of surprise while still showing enough visual and categorical information for the visitor to make a choice.
Opening the Full Story
When an item is selected, the complete story opens in a focused reading panel styled like a letter. Where consent has been given, the prompt connected to the original contribution can also be displayed, providing more context for why the story was shared.
Retaining Practical Filters
The gallery includes direct filters for family closeness, narrative focus, tone and language. These are more conventional than the postcard interaction, but they are useful for visitors who already know what they want to find.
Controlling Public Visibility
Only stories marked as approved appear in the public gallery. Pending and rejected entries remain hidden, ensuring that the gallery is connected to the archive's moderation system.
Key Takeaways
- Providing both guided and open browsing makes the archive more accessible to visitors with different levels of familiarity and intention.
- The letter-like presentation helps maintain the emotional character of the stories even within a practical gallery system.
Reflection
- The direct gallery is necessary because not every visitor wants to complete a long interaction each time they visit.
- The visual presentation makes a large collection feel less overwhelming than a conventional database.
- As the archive grows, the filters and information hierarchy will become even more important for preventing the gallery from becoming cluttered.