Caitlin Murphy’s Visits the Silverlining Workshop: An Insight into the World of a Third-Generation Silversmith
We were delighted to welcome the exceptionally talented Caitlin Murphy to our Silverlining workshop. As a third-generation silversmith, Caitlin brings a rich legacy and a unique perspective to her craft. During her visit, she shared her inspiring journey, experiences, and the driving passion behind her work. This event was particularly special as it highlighted the support of Silverlining founder Mark Boddington and his wife, Tara Boddington, who sponsored Caitlin through the QEST Emerging Maker Scholarship Certificate. This sponsorship has empowered Caitlin to advance her studies at the prestigious Bishopsland Educational Trust for a second year. Dive into our conversation with Caitlin to discover the insights and inspirations behind her exceptional work.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what sparked your passion for silversmithing?
I have always had a love for silversmithing and jewellery for as long as I can remember. My earliest memories of time in the workshop are with my mum… I’m sporting a princess tiara and a hammer, together with my brother, testing it out. The joy and passion have grown throughout my life from having my own business cards and a business plan from the age of about 11.
As a third-generation silversmith, how has your family's legacy influenced your work and creative process?
My family has been incredibly influential in my work and creative process. I feel very lucky that I have always had the support and encouragement from all of them to strive to be the best I can be. For years I attended various exhibitions and talks that they would be a part of, and I felt incredibly proud. However, this did not come without high expectations and at times pressure. I am so grateful to my family for showing me the world of arts and crafts my whole life and to know that a career like silversmithing was possible.
How do you approach challenging boundaries in your work, and what drives you to innovate in your designs?
I really love a challenge when it comes to my work. I often approach them head-on. It is so important to me to create innovative and unique designs. This is something that has been a creative journey and one that has its ups and downs. I’ve learned over the years that creative energy can’t be forced. In the times when I struggle to find inspiration, I often get a range of materials and give myself a few days to ‘play’. This takes the pressure off and allows me to get into the flow state of making, exercising a process of ‘thinking through making’.
Where do you draw your inspiration from, and how does it translate into your creations?
I draw inspiration from a variety of things. I think subconsciously sometimes these are things I see every day. The repeat patterns on the ground as I’m walking or the large faceted facade on the side of buildings. Generally, my inspiration comes through working with my hands; they often guide me. This is in conjunction with playing with materials. I move from paper to copper, to cardboard to brass, playing with material limits, colours, and form. From this, I move to my computer often using CAD, such as Rhino and Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to cut and paste and play with scale, patterns, and design. It always seems to be a very long process from initial concept to final design.
Congratulations on being awarded three gold awards at the Goldsmiths Craft and Design Council Awards! This is such an incredible achievement; how does it feel to be recognized at such a prestigious event?
Three gold awards at the Goldsmiths Craft and Design Council Awards was very much a pinch-me moment. I would have been honoured to have received one, so three was rather overwhelming. This really felt like a testament to all the hard work I have done since establishing my business after leaving university. The GCDC Awards are highly sought after, and I always love entering the competition. Various work experience opportunities came alongside the awards, which is also very exciting for me.
Caitlin's visit was an inspiring experience for all of us at Silverlining. Her dedication to her craft and innovative approach to silversmithing left a lasting impression. We encourage you to follow her journey on Instagram (@caitlinmurphymaker) and sign up for her mailing list to stay updated with her latest projects and exhibitions. Don’t miss the opportunity to see her remarkable work in person at upcoming shows!
https://www.caitlinmurphy.org/
Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews with talented artists and craftsmen on our blog. We’re excited to bring you insights and inspiration from the creative minds shaping the world of bespoke furniture and design.