ARTWORKS

Department of Ogolothinry (or Department of Ornithology) (part of a site-specific installation)

Bob and Roberta Smith (b.1963)

Royal London Hospital

Department of Ogolothinry (or Department of Ornithology)

© the artists. Image credit: Vital Arts, Barts Health NHS Trust

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Devised as a joyful puzzle for visitors to disentangle, this playful work invites a spot of ‘bird’ spotting. Scattered throughout the building are forty-two colourful word paintings which each feature the scrambled name of a well known bird. With the aid of an ornithological guide, placed within a handmade shelf (recalling a bird hide) located in the waiting area, visitors can identify actual bird names. This work, intended to provide momentary escape and distraction, is inspired by a love of the country and the therapeutic value of engaging with nature.

Royal London Hospital

London

Title

Department of Ogolothinry (or Department of Ornithology)

Date

2009

Medium

sign writer’s enamel on wood & books

Measurements

H 14 x W 164 cm

Accession number

31AS/G/17/02

Acquisition method

commissioned, 2009

Work type

Painting

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Royal London Hospital

Whitechapel, London, Greater London E1 1BB England

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Artist or maker

Bob and Roberta Smith

b.1963

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