This exhibition asks how laws are shaped and whose voices shape them. Working with communities across Kent and Professor of Law Diamond Ashiagbor (University of Kent 2018-2025, University of Birmingham since 2025), artist Emma Smith examines the gap between human rights and lived experience.

The work takes the form of a series of future proposals to close this gap, accompanied by a contemplative structure installed in the upper atrium. Inspired by Amelia Scott's fight for equality, Making Language draws on the UK's oldest book of written law, the Textus Roffensis, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to imagine a fairer future. Each piece is collectively authored with its text presented in a state of readiness for illumination at the point each statement becomes a reality.

Created with Kent Refugee Action Network (KRAN), Gillingham Street Angels, Family Action Medway Pregnancy to Three, and Soroptimist International Tunbridge Wells and District.

Commissioned by The Amelia Scott as part of the Kent & Medway Museum Partnership NPO, funded by Arts Council England.

Please note this exhibition will be closed 27 February – 8 March