The Scottish Kelpie

The Kelpie is a creature from Scottish folklore/mythology. It has been celebrated by the magnificent giant horse head sculptures created by Andy Scott in Helix Park near Falkirk.

Kelpies are shape-shifting creatures that live in rivers and streams. On land a kelpie often resembles a horse but it can also appear as a beautiful woman or a man but his feet will remain as hooves. Sadly, the kelpie is not a benevolent creature and when it has enticed a human, it drags them to a watery grave!

My kelpie is created from upcycled items of jewellery: silver coloured chains in a range of styles and thicknesses. I have added other jewellery pieces like the substantial pendant that forms the kelpie’s body along with a flat metallic linking shape. The kelpie’s long tail is made from chunky chains and finished with a silver-painted sea shell. I have added silver-grey organza ribbon for the horse’s mane and streaming from its back.

I have used fabric, netting, buttons, beads, chenille, various pieces of faux foliage, a few chunks of rock and a mix of turquoise and grey sand crystals to create the riverbed. If you look at the main image once again, you’ll see a solitary boot laying in the sediment. This is all that remains of the last unfortunate soul who encountered the kelpie.

Folklore and mythology provide the fascinating stories that people used to try and explain the world around them. Tales of the kelpie may have been to warn children of the dangers of rivers and streams, of not talking to strangers, or just as ghostly entertainment for a winter’s night.

My kelpie recreates all the magic and mystery in a mixed media box frame. I am happy to say that this artwork has now been sold but you might like to look at the Blue Man Storm Kelpie.

Derrick