Reflecting on a humble Door knob.

Part of a painting, yes, but not the main feature. Cartoons, yes. as the mouse, fleeing from the cat, draw a door knob so he can escape. But rarely are they the feature of your actual paintings. Number 18 of the 4950 Paintings sees me going back to basics with a humble doorknob. OK, so maybe this one is a little bit grand, but it’s relatively humble.

Doorknobs are ubiquitous.

We rarely notice them, unless they are particularly ornate or stuck. This one is typically functional, the angles allowing for good purchase in wet weather. Important if you’re coming in from a storm. I wonder if the householders ever notice this feature as they fumble in haste to flee a downpour?

Ever been left bereft as a door knob came out in your hand because a screw worked lose? You’re left holding the useless item, wondering how to enter or exit the room. Perhaps there’s a sense of urgency? You’re late for an appointment! Panic sets in.

Or perhaps with embarrassment if it’s a crowded place?

You hope no one has spotted you as you try to fit it back on. Another source of many a joke. We sometimes use them to hang things on and the late Cilla Black  once noted that she used a doorknob as a “dance partner” so she could practice her Jive spins whilst holding on. Now there’s an image…