Ep 3. I Keep

"I Keep" is the third episode of the first season of the PBS series American Portrait. This episode focuses on personal collections and the stories they tell about the people who curate them. The episode features individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life who share their deep connections to the objects they collect and the memories they hold.

The episode begins with a woman named Amy who shares her love for collecting antique keys. She explains how each key has a unique story and connection to history that she finds fascinating. Next, a woman named Tempest shares her collection of books and the importance of reading in her life. She discusses how books have provided her with a sense of comfort, knowledge, and identity.

The episode then shifts to the world of sports collecting, as a man named Dave shares his passion for baseball memorabilia. He talks about how his collection reminds him of his childhood and the joy he felt playing the game with his father. The episode also features a Dallas Cowboys fan named Amanda who shows off her collection of team merchandise and explains how it connects her to her community and sense of identity as a fan.

The episode then transitions to the realm of art collecting, as a woman named Julia shares her love for photography and her collection of vintage cameras. She discusses the creative and personal connections she has with the medium, and how her collection has allowed her to explore new ways of seeing the world around her.

Another individual featured in the episode is a man named David, who shares his collection of antique medical instruments. He talks about his fascination with the objects and the incredible advancements in medicine over the years, as well as the tragic stories of those who have suffered throughout history.

The episode continues with a woman named Jocelyn, who shares her collection of rocks and minerals and explains the scientific and emotional significance of each specimen. She talks about how her collection has allowed her to connect with nature and explore the wonders of the Earth.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a focus on music collecting, as a man named Drew shares his love for vinyl records and how they represent the cultural and musical movements of various eras. He talks about how each record tells a unique story and allows him to relive the past through the sounds of the music.

Overall, "I Keep" provides a diverse and engaging look at the world of personal collecting and the ways in which these collections hold meaning and significance for the individuals who curate them. The episode emphasizes the emotional, historical, and cultural connections that can be found in everyday objects and how they can provide a sense of identity and purpose for those who keep them.