Miriam Hanid

Silversmith

Painting in metal

Silversmithing reflects Miriam's passion for painting and 3D design
Her earliest memory of creating dates from when she was four years old
She has studied with masters Malcolm Appleby and Rod Kelly

Silversmithing runs in Miriam Hanid's family. Her great grandfather was a silversmith and gunsmith in Nairobi, Kenya, and made two gifts for Queen Elizabeth II in 1952. Exactly 60 years later Miriam, who by then was an award-winning silversmith with a well established practice, was commissioned to create a silver gift for Her Majesty to mark her Diamond Jubilee. Miriam's work is both sculptural and organic in nature and form, often inspired by water and movement. Chasing and repoussé are the techniques that she is best known for. Her silver pieces are often formed by setting them in pitch, a substance made from bitumen, as well as through hammering and engraving, which create additional reliefs, surface patterns and textures.

Interview

Why did you choose this craft?: After years of working as a silversmith, I am convinced that it’s the perfect medium for me as I always wanted to be a painter, and silver allows me to create what I call 'paintings in metal'. Working with 3D surfaces never ceases to inspire me and continues to help me develop my artistic style.
Why do you favour the chasing technique?: I was introduced to chasing just six months before the end of my degree. The technician showed me a few basic techniques and tools, and I was blown away. I have been addicted ever since. I love the worked, handmade quality that can be achieved in silver using punches and hammers.
What would you say is your signature style?: I enjoy experimenting with traditional methods. For example, chasing the piece first and building the form up afterwards with nylon and wooden tools is a new approach which I use to innovate, thus exploring artistic styles which portray the essence of movement and are entirely my own.
Is your craft linked to where you live?: My work is inspired by the natural world around me and particularly the sea, which is very near to where I live. My themes relate to waves, ripples and reflections found in water, layers of sedimentary rock, as well as the textures and patterns found in wood, snowflakes and frost.

Miriam Hanid is a master artisan: she began her career in 2008 and she started teaching in 2011