The Kelpie

'CREEKY WORKS'

For my Level 6 Major Project, I chose to reinterpret the Kelpie, a mythical water spirit from Scottish folklore, through the visual language of deep-sea bioluminescence. The costume’s silhouette references the recognisable form of a horse, one of the Kelpie’s manifestations, while still revealing the human figure within. This choice emphasises the duality of the creature, shifting between human and animal states.

The materials and colour palette draw from deep-ocean life, using dark, fluid fabrics to suggest movement and depth. Lights embedded within the mane and tail echo the glow of bioluminescent organisms, enhancing the sense of otherworldliness. The addition of a sharp, exaggerated maw reinforces the creature’s predatory nature.

By blending folklore with natural imagery, this design presents the Kelpie as a hybrid entity. It reflects both myth and reality, capturing the transformative and deceptive qualities central to the creature’s identity.

Also displayed in this exhibition are additional 3D pieces created during my studies. These demonstrate my interest in upcycling and adapting animatronic toys into new works of art.