The Lady of Keys: mural in Amsterdam about self-knowledge
I recently painted The Lady of Keys, a quick mural in Amsterdam, in collaboration with Malakkai, and I wanted to share the story behind it. This mural is more than a wall, it’s a reflection on identity, self-knowledge, and personal growth.
About the Lady of Keys
The mural depicts a woman holding a key, while her body is covered with locks. Some of these locks already have keys embedded in them, suggesting that many answers, strengths, and insights are already inside us.
For me, keys have always been a powerful symbol. Each lock represents memories, choices, or parts of ourselves that have shaped who we are. The key she holds isn’t about opening every door; it’s about understanding which doors are truly worth opening. Some locks protect us, while others hold stories we’re not ready to face yet.
This mural is part of my ongoing exploration of keys and locks as symbols of identity and inner worlds.
Symbolism and Meaning
Keys are a recurring theme in my work. In The Lady of Keys, they symbolize:
Self-knowledge: understanding and trusting your inner world
Choice and awareness: knowing which doors to open and which to keep closed
Personal growth: discovering strength, wisdom, and resilience within yourself
The woman in this mural isn’t waiting for someone else to unlock her. She is the guardian of her own doors, a visual reminder that we carry our own keys, and that self-awareness is a form of empowerment.
A Reflection
When I look at The Lady of Keys, I hope it inspires people to pause and reflect:
Which doors are you protecting?
Which parts of yourself hold the answers you seek?
This mural our my invitation for viewers to explore their inner worlds, recognize their own strength, and embrace self-knowledge as a tool for growth.
