A bit of reflection

As a silversmith it is easy to fall into making larger pieces which are only accessible to those of high wealth. Because precious metal is pretty bloody expensive, as you would imagine, before any making even begins.

While silver is my material of choice (because it is just magical to work with, to feel, to use, it is antibacterial, it's a natural material, it is endlessly recyclable, I could go on...) I have always wanted to make stylish, timeless functional items which can be used and enjoyed daily. Not only now but in the future too, and for generations to come, as silver doesn't biodegrade so will be here forever.

Looking back at work I have made I can see that is the lane I have stuck to. Jugs, tumblers, coffee scoops and cream jugs, boxes, spoons, pinch pots, scoops and egg cups; they are investment pieces they have been made with the thought that they would sit well in any environment, any modern kitchen and dining room, to bring the owner endless joy and a touch of luxury with every use. And pricepoint wise, although they are made with precious metal they aren’t that different to mid-high end design pieces. Yet the silver creations will last for generations upon generations so price per use will end up being in credit - it will actually cost you nothing in the end (yes you need to use your imagination a little with that but its sort of true!).

Do I have dreams of creating grand ambitious designs in silver like many other silversmiths? Yes. And I hope the time will come when I am in a position to be able to afford a big enough piece of silver to do that. But I am also very happy creating smaller, well considered thoughtful designs, well made and pleasing to the eye, enjoyable to touch, comfortable and satisfying to hold, and very gratifying to use. I take great pride in knowing that people are out there, interacting with my pieces on a daily basis, enjoying them with their morning coffee, afternoon tea, evening wine and whiskey and more.

📷 @paulmounseyphotography