We interviewed Miriam Habibe in our publication “Abstracted” surrounding the concept of abstract. Visit the publication here.
What brought you back to art after dedicating many years to parenting and full-time work?
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Wales, where rolling hills meet the rugged coastline, artist Miriam embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery that would transform her life from the challenges of motherhood to the vibrant world of art. Miriam found her creative spark dimmed under the weight of daily responsibilities and the demands of raising a family and working full-time. However, inspired by the beauty surrounding her and the yearning to reconnect with her artistic roots, she began exploring the colours and textures of her environment, reigniting her love for creation and leading her to a newfound sense of purpose.
What has the return to creativity meant to you?
Miriam’s artistic journey is a vivid tapestry woven with threads of struggle, resilience, and profound self-discovery. She faced the dual challenge of embracing her BAME heritage while navigating the complexities of a society that often marginalised women and marginalised voices like hers. These experiences, while at times painful, ignited a fierce passion within her—a desire to express her identity through art and to celebrate the rich cultural narratives that shaped her. Yet, it was this very struggle that became her catalyst for rebirth. She began to delve deeper into her roots, exploring traditional crafts such as weaving, with which she found a natural affinity for more conceptual art through abstraction and mixed media techniques.
Can you tell us about the SAROI weaving technique and your connection to it? How did you discover it, and what resonated with you about the “no rules, no mistakes” philosophy?
Through her work with the Saori loom, she embraces traditional techniques and weaves a narrative that celebrates diversity in materials and experiences. SAORI philosophy offers an open, generous, and spontaneous approach to weaving, emphasising exploration, improvisation, and creative expression. SAORI weaving is a gentle, mindful, and meditative creative activity that promotes self-discovery and self-expression. SAORI philosophy and way of life presses the humanness of weaving, not the machine, to be bold and adventurous, to look out through ‘eyes that shine,’ and to inspire and learn from everyone. An outlook – that embraces the natural beauty of unintended effects, irregular edges, and loose threads and encourages the pursuit of the unknown. While weaving in the Saori technique, we stay open-minded and enthusiastic in each moment, alert to our thoughts and emotions, and notice beauty in front of us on the loom and around us. Our minds are ready and available.
How has Japanese Buddhism over the years influenced your art and creative process?
Miriam’s background is a rich tapestry of experiences that informs her artwork. She draws from her cultural influences, intertwining them to create a multi-layered sense of identity as an artist whose journey through the realms of creativity and spirituality has shaped her unique perspective on art. As Miriam weaves her narratives into her creations, she invites viewers to engage with her works on a deeper level, exploring the intersections of identity, spirituality, and creativity in this vibrant dialogue between art and life. Miriam uses the Saori loom to weave intricate textiles that embody tranquillity and mindfulness. She meticulously crafts using a blend of fibres, paint, wood, paper, stitching and canvas, creating a tactile experience that invites the viewer to engage emotionally and visually. Her philosophy of mindfulness and the importance of creativity in everyday life. As she continues to expand her artistic horizons, Miriam’s work remains a beautiful reflection of her journey, merging past influences with present-day innovation. She is particularly fascinated by the interplay of material and meaning. Her work is characterised using found objects and recycled materials, which she transforms into thought-provoking pieces that challenge the viewer’s perceptions of art and their surroundings.
How has the CARN Artist Collective community influenced your work?
Miriam’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with the vibrant landscapes of Wales and the rich tapestry of cultures. As she wanders through the rolling hills, sweeping valleys, and rugged coastlines of her homeland, she is captivated by the natural beauty surrounding her. The lush green pastures, punctuated by the dramatic outlines of ancient castles and the serene shores of the coastline, serve not only as a backdrop but also as a profound source of inspiration for her work. Each brushstroke echoes the colours of the landscape—emerald greens, deep blues, and warm earthy tones—inviting viewers to experience the essence of Wales through her eyes.
Yet, it is not just the Welsh scenery that fuels Miriam’s creativity; it is also her heritage and the stories of the local community that resonate deeply within her. Growing up in a multicultural urban environment, she has always been acutely aware of the intersectionality of her identity, which informs her artistic expression. Miriam draws upon the vibrant traditions, narratives, and aesthetics of her ancestry, weaving them into the fabric of her artwork. From the intricate patterns of textiles reminiscent of her cultural roots to the rhythmic motifs inspired by folklore, her pieces tell stories that celebrate her new home in Wales, its communities, and her diverse heritage. Weaving holds a profound significance in Miriam’s artistic journey, serving as both a literal and metaphorical thread that connects her to her BAME heritage and the rich cultural tapestry of Wales. For Miriam, weaving is not just a craft; it is a mode of storytelling, a way to express her identity, and a means to celebrate the diverse narratives that shape her existence. Each piece she creates is imbued with layers of meaning, reflecting the intricate interplay of her personal experiences and the broader historical context of her community.
Moreover, Miriam has delivered weaving workshops with local communities and schools designed to educate and inspire the next generation and to weave their own stories. These interactive sessions are a vibrant platform for sharing stories, skills, and cultural narratives, inviting participants from diverse backgrounds to engage in the creative process and learn from one another.
How do you hope that viewers will engage with or interpret your artwork?
Art has always served as a powerful medium for expressing and exploring cultural identity, and Miriam’s work is a testament to its profound impact. In her vibrant creations, she intricately weaves elements from her BAME heritage, using colour, texture, and form to tell stories that resonate deeply with her experiences and the rich tapestry of her community. Each piece reflects her personal journey and the shared narratives of those who have come before her, celebrating the history and resilience of individuals from a diaspora and having found a home on Wale. Miriam often begins her creations with traditional fabrics such as sari silk, which resonate with her heritage—vibrant textiles sourced from markets that echo the colours of her childhood. These materials are not just components of her art; they hold memories, histories, and connections to her ancestry. She infuses her work with tactile depth, inviting viewers to engage visually and physically. The intricate patterns she crafts serve as a metaphor for the complexities of identity, echoing the interconnected narratives of her community.
In contrast, Miriam also embraces modern techniques, blending them with her analogue techniques. This fusion allows her to explore new dimensions of expression, utilising digital prints to layer her art with contemporary themes that resonate with today’s society. The juxtaposition of the old and the new is intentional—it reflects her journey, a celebration of heritage that acknowledges the past while looking forward.
Where do you see your practice evolving in the future?
Through her art, Miriam invites viewers to engage with and understand the nuances of cultural identity. She believes art can bridge gaps between communities, fostering empathy and connection. Miriam’s journey epitomises how creativity can empower individuals to reclaim their narratives and assert their identities, reminding us of the importance of representation in the arts. Inspires a broader dialogue about the role of art in shaping and celebrating cultural identity within the vibrant landscape of Wales.