The inspiration for my work comes from the imagery of water.
I use water as a metaphor for the divine current of energy flowing through all forms of life. I record the ever-changing element of water in drawings and photographs.
Rough sketches are transferred to the silver, informing the visual framework. The silver's form then changes rapidly throughout the making process.
The techniques of chasing and repoussé form silver into deep contours.
The metal is held in soft pitch, a tar-like substance, while wide punches are used to create depth on the surface of the silver. I then repeat this process from the other side.
A specialist technique I have adopted is to start a piece with flat chasing before it is formed.
The silver sheet is held in hard pitch and fine punches are used to make defined lines. I then work the silver on wooden formers following the main lines of the initial chasing.
Often the silver is planished with steel hammers, to give a finely dappled finish.
I use hand engraving in my work to create a shimmering play of light on the silver.
Faceted lines are carved out on the surface with a graving tool. After engraving the silver is then formed or shaped on wood.
Filmed by Suffolk amateur filmmakers Eileen Dowsing and Richard Sagon, March 2013.
The Victoria and Albert Museum commissioned Miriam to create a silver centrepiece for a special exhibition 'Treasures of The Royal Courts: Tudors, Stuarts, and The Russian Tsars.'
This short film shows the making of 'Union' centrepiece from a flat sheet of silver through to forming into a three dimensional form.
The Goldsmiths Company selected Miriam Hanid to be Artist in Residence at Ickworth House, Suffolk, throughout the summer of 2012.
The 'Studio Silver Today' exhibition showcased several of Miriam's silver centrepieces.
As part of the project Miriam made an Ickworth inspired silver chased tumbler which could be won in a free prize draw. The 'Leaves of Gold' beaker was won by Mr Pease, from a nearby county and was presented to the happy owner at the conclusion of the exhibition.