Nice composition but the pins in the back look really wierd to me for some reason, though you could be going for a more abstract feel in which case it works.
This is an effect I don't find very appealing. It looks like this image might be fairly interesting and a good subject for the challenge. Unfortunately I can't get by my dislike of the effect to give the photograph the score it may deserve.
even though i don't particuliarly care for the shot i do feel it is a good photo and good example of shallow dof....just can't get excited about push pins
My immediate assumption would be you have used this effect to cover up something bad about the photo as this effect is certainly not that interesting to look at in my opinion.
Honestly, I don't think this will do stellar here, but I love it and can say confidently it belongs in a portfolio. The unusual blurring of the background tacks is a great idea.