Doorways to another world: some of Doug’s offbeat ‘openings’ photographs.

Doug Freerksen is an artist, designer, sculptor and, like us, a passionate restorer of old buildings.

What’s going on behind the green door

Doug, from Oak Park, Illinois, in the United States, has been involved in the restoration of vintage homes for more than 50 years, contributing to and managing dozens of restoration projects, among them 35 structures by Frank Lloyd Wright – including Wright’s own home and studio structures in Oak Park.

As an NPP (Non-Painting Partner), Doug took dozens of photographs during his week with us, while his wife Deborah enjoyed painting with James Swanson. Among them were quirky pictures of doors and openings. Doug told us: “I view openings as passageways or opportunities to see into or out from one place to another. The panel itself is a barrier or a shutter that lets you know there is something completely different beyond.” 

“A door ajar is a ‘two-for-one’.  And if you think about it, the camera lens is already one doorway and my personal visual observation is a second one but that’s probably cheating – or at least pressing the point.”

Doug adds: “Doors can be open or closed but I’m so glad your door was open to me for our week in Posara. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and our chats.”

We describe our painting courses as ‘convivial creativity’ and if you enjoy inspirational teaching, warm hospitality, stunning locations, delicious food and wine –, of course, the convivial company of like-minded people, the Watermill is the place for you We also have plenty of suggestions for activities for NPPs, including good conversation under the dappled shade of the vine verandah! See https://watermill.net/ for more.

What is happening behind? Another ancient door at the Watermill.