Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Three Muses Challenge - Keys



I love the theme this week for the Three Muses Challenge - Keys. Ever since I was a child a big set of keys always invoked images of hidden treasures, a room full of mysteries and doors that opened unto unbelievable sights. Every time I would go with my Mother or Grandmother flea marketing or antiquing I would spot some keys. I usually would come home with a few wondering what secrets they unlocked.

This weeks theme sent me in a spin of ideas. I found this picture of these men earlier this week in my New York Public Library file and have been itching to use it. I figure these guys held the key to a lot of things, the railroad, the telegraph system, the postal system, banks, etc. This of course led to a whole new world. So who is your key holder?

24 comments:

Patti Edmon Artist said...

wow, what a challenge... who holds my key... I'll be thinking about that!
love the collage and I'm enjoying the photoshop class I'm taking - I'll have to send you some of the results!
have a great Thanksgiving!

Heather Robinson said...

What a marvelous photo...you've used it to perfection! I completely relate to your love of keys. They really do add an air of mystery to artwork don't they? Beautiful entry.

Sandy said...

Wow this is stunning.
Unbelievable art. Looks great.

Bea said...

Love the photo. Hmmm, who is my key holder? I know I'm the "clicker" holder for the tv. I know I have my keys attached to a spiral hoop that I can put on my wrist so i don't lose them. I know that I hate locking anything but in this day and age have to and that makes me sad.
Zeus has the key to my heart.
Well, he thinks he does. :)Bea

Lori Saul said...

Wonderful photo set upon a beautiful background Elizabeth. In those days men did seem to hold all the keys to important things- but times have changed- thank heavens! This is a lovely rustic piece!

indybev said...

What a handsome gathering of key-holders! I share you fascination as well, but I would never have looked at this photo and thought of the gentlemen as keyholders. The idea fascinates me! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, as well as your talent....AND the freebie!

Eila A said...

Fantastic work, Elizabeth! Your collage is wonderful - these men relly look like they hold the keys to a lot of things. The key background is awesome - thanks for the freebie, too!

AliMayes said...

This is a fabulous treatment of a fabulous picture Elizabeth - I love how you have done it and thanks for the freebie too!

Hearts Turned said...

What a beautiful creation! Love what you did here! The photograph is wonderful, and the added keys just perfect! Love your thoughts on the keys & keyholders...I've always been fascinated with old keys too!

peggy gatto said...

I love your vision as much as the piece you created!!!!!

Rosie said...

When I look at this photo, I agree. Bank Manager, definitely, for one of them. They look like a Chamber of Commerce!! Great collage Elizabeth! =)

Judy said...

What a interesting bunch of guys, Elizabeth, love how you've created a great vintage masterpiece!

Ozstuff said...

This is a truly stunning piece, Elizabeth. The photo is wonderful and I love the grungy, rich sepia look you have given it. I enjoyed your reminiscences about keys and how they affected you. We can all identify with your thoughts - but not express them so well.
Fantastic work.

lorhen82 said...

Great piece, and I love the story you shared with us! ~Lori

Ellen said...

Love your tale about the keys what a gorgeous background for those handsome men. love it

vintage wil said...

Great foto ! love the colors!!!

Taluula said...

This is a very interesting and stunning work of art Elizabeth. I love the idea of these men having the keys to their futures and our past. Wonderful.

Jester said...

Love the vintage look.
Thanks for the freebies.

Silvia(Barnie) said...

Wonderful collage, love the vintage look.

Unknown said...

oh wow!!! great work on the challenge!!!

Martina said...

This is fantastic! I love the image and the whole design! Beautiful work!

Margaret said...

I love this piece, great image and very thought provoking, all those things we can never really know. M

Kris Dickinson said...

I adore this fabulous and fun piece!

Julia said...

O I see some really nice guys there:) The one on the right below and the one left top ;)Just my taste;)
Gorgeous card and the color tones are fantastic.