In the fifth of a series of articles featuring images by Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society members, Anuraj Theivendram takes a look at Arnie Göbel’s long‑running Windows and Doors of the World project
If you’ve ever wandered through an old town and found yourself pausing at a beautifully weathered doorway or a brightly painted shutter, you’ll understand the heart of Arnie Göbel’s long‑running photographic project. His series, Finestre e Porte del Mondo (Windows and Doors of the World), celebrates the character, craft and quiet poetry found in windows and doors across the globe.
The Italian title, he says, simply felt right, as it reflects the passion and artistry that so often shape these architectural details. The project began almost by accident. During regular trips back to Germany to visit his mother, Arnie would use the quiet afternoons to explore nearby towns and villages. One visit to the Brothers Grimm town of Steinau an der Straße was enough to spark a fascination that has never left him. Since then, he has photographed more than 280 windows and doors from over 60 locations in 18 countries, each one chosen for its charm, texture or sense of place.
Arnie now prints many of these images as small, framed miniatures, as well as larger pieces and floating prints. They have become a distinctive part of his creative output, sitting alongside his landscape work, abstract architecture, wildlife photography and occasional live‑music shoots. He also produces product photography for clients, which shows how far his skills extend beyond personal projects.
Photography has been part of Arnie’s life since childhood. His first camera was a Kodak Box Brownie, followed by an Olympus OM10 that travelled with him from Germany to South Africa and eventually to the UK. After years with Canon DSLRs, he moved to the Olympus OM‑D system in 2017 and has stayed with it ever since.
A long‑standing member of both the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society and Art Group Wanstead, Arnie brings a thoughtful eye and deep appreciation for the stories hidden in everyday details. His work reminds us that beauty often sits quietly in front of us, whether in a peeling shutter, a sun‑bleached doorway or a lovingly tended window box, simply waiting to be noticed.
If Arnie’s passion for seeing the world differently sparks something in you, why not come and meet the society behind so much local creativity? Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society welcomes photographers of every level, from complete beginners to seasoned image‑makers. You will find a friendly group, weekly inspiration and plenty of encouragement to explore your own way of seeing.
To view more of Arnie’s work, visit asg-productions.co.uk
For more information on the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society, visit wnstd.com/wwps
