The Argentium^© Project: Developing New Avenues for Silver Design

In 2008 Kristina was awarded an AHRC practice-led grant under the title "Exploring new Avenues for Silver Design using Argentium Sterling Silver and Laser Welding" to continue the work begun at Middlesex University.

The project was conducted both through theoretical and practical inquiry. It developed firstly a framework for understanding and defining new avenues. Secondly, the project explored how such new avenues can be developed creatively. The project resulted in the publication of two research papers, and in an exhibition held at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery from September 2009 to March 2010.

Creative Enquiry

The creative work explored three areas: 1) technical aspects of joining thin hard-rolled Argentium through laser welding; 2) design development exploring how material and process can be combined to achieve integrity (i.e. relevant use of material and process in relation to a design); 3) creative opportunities arising from the combination of the cosen material and technology.

Design Development

Developing from the original set of cups designed in 2005, two further sets of cups were designed, which progressively integrated the use of laserwelding and of thin hard-rolled Argentium into the design of the handles, foot and lip of the cups.

Creative Development

Elasticity is one of the important characteristics of metal. However, traditional silver is often solid, highly polished, and finished to perfection. Much contemporary silver has attempted to break away from this image either through a deliberate lack of finish, or through deconstructing the surface. The combination of Argentium and Laser welding has offered a further step in this direction. 'How can we bring silver alive?' is an important question. Allowing the joining of very thin strips of Argentium (0.1mm thick) through laser welding, the flowery forms become 'alive' through their organic shape, fragile looking and yet strong and flexible, reacting to any disturbance in the room with a slight vibration.

The two fruit bowls transform in use. When laden with apples, Fruit Bowl 1 changes from a flattened ball into a doughnut shape, emphasising the weight and physical presence of the fruit. Fruit Bowl 2 closes its fingers the more it is laden with fruit, seemingly protecting its contents.

Summary of Project proposal link

Project Publications

Niedderer, K. (2009). Exploring the Concept of 'New Avenues' for Silver Design. (pending)

Niedderer, K. 2009. Sustainability of Craft as a Discipline? Making Futures Conference 2009, Plymouth, UK: Plumouth College of Art and Design. link

Further information on Argentium® Silver link

© Copyright 2007 Kristina Niedderer