I went there...

Today's inspiration challenge was definitely a challenge for me. We were to take the artistic work of Sarah Collier and use it as our inspiration for a card. As I looked through her gallery, I realized she was a genius at collage, particularly taking seemingly unrelated images and layering them into a single piece.

I was inspired by her works relating to musicians. My favorite work, was this one of an aging U2 I. I love the sheet music as a layer. She created a similar look for the Stones and the Beatles.

I have resisted collage, mainly because when I try to throw things together and make them look like one piece, my finished pieces tend to look too intentional... not haphazard enough. I looked at the SCS Challenge this morning and really let it brew all day before I knew what my inspiration would be.

Back when I first saw the movie, Mr. Holland's Opus, I was touched by its portrayal of Mr. Holland's acceptance of his son's hearing impairment. When he sang the song, Beautiful Boy, by John Lennon, to his son, I remember tears just falling down my face. What a gorgeous song to write for your child.

So, today's card blends that song with a favorite picture of Max and me. I will probably end up using this for a scrapbook page hidden journal. We waited so long for Max and almost gave up on him coming in to our lives. I can bond with Mr. Holland and his road to acceptance of what his son's "normal" would be.

If I could alter any part of the card, it would be to make our photo a bit more transparent. But, for a gal who's wary of collage, I think I done good. :) I think I will even duplicate the idea for Ignatius and for Scott. Hmmm, which songs suit them...?

Card size: 4-1/4 x 4-7/8"

Cardstock: SU! To the Nines DSP; SU! Bashful Blue

Stamps: SU! Always

Ink: Color Box Chestnus Roan (for edge distressing); Tim Holz Distress Ink Vintage Photo

Alphabet: Spare Parts Alpha Chips

Ribbon: SU! Chocolate Chip twill, Kraft taffeta, and Bashful Blue taffeta

Sheet Music: Music Notes.com