My practice is centred on the preservation of the Scots language and it’s many dialects. I use coded systems, such as Morse code, to embed Scots words into sculptural forms and hand-drawn patterns. In doing so, I turn language into physical forms that can be seen, touched and experienced rather than simply spoken or read.

This work exists at the intersection of language, structure and materiality. Each piece carries meaning beneath the surface, asking the viewer to consider what is hidden, what is overlooked, and what is worth protecting. The use of code reflects a historical truth: only things of immense value were ever encrypted. In this way, I treat Scots language with the same reverence, encoding it to safeguard and elevate it.

My sculptures and drawings do not offer immediate clarity. Instead, they invite careful observation and interpretation. By placing coded language into physical space, I aim to create forms that speak persistently about Scotland’s linguistic cultural heritage.

Kay Mclafferty                                                                                                                           

Born in 1989 in Glasgow, Scotland
Resides and works in Dundee, Scotland

Education/training:

2022-2025: Contemporary Art Practice Undergraduate, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee, Scotland
2018-2022: Contemporary Art Practice, Intro - HND, Dundee and Angus college, Dundee, Scotland

Selected group exhibitions:

2025 Degree Show 2025, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee, Scotland

2024 Visual Arts Scotland Centenary Exhibition, Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh, Scotland

2023 Postcerds Fae Dundee, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Dundee, Scotland

2023 The good, the bic and the ugly, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee, Scotland

2023 What are we going to do with this pile of shite, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee, Scotland

Selected collections:

Osteria, Perth, Scotland

Private collection, Dundee, Scotland
Private collection, Fowlis, Scotland
Private collection, Fife, Scotland

Awards:

2023 Postcerds Fae Dundee Winner, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Dundee, Scotland

2022 Art and Design Award Winner, Dundee and Angus college, Dundee, Scotland

2021 Art and Design Award Winner, Dundee and Angus college, Dundee, Scotland

2020 Art and Design Award Winner, Dundee and Angus college, Dundee, Scotland