Bob and Roberta Smith

20 May

Written By Ian Masters

The Department of Ornithology, 2009

Series of 40 works, sign writer’s enamel on wood, bird spotting guide books and shelf, 2014

2022 relocated to Whipps Cross Hospital, Outpatients Link Corridor from the Royal London Hospital, Wellness Centre

Devised as a joyful puzzle for visitors to disentangle, this playful work invites a spot of “bird” spotting. Scattered throughout the building are several colourful word paintings which each feature the scrambled name of a well known bird. With the aid of an ornithological guide located in the waiting area, visitors can identify actual bird names. This work, intended to provide momentary escape and distraction, is inspired by Bob and Roberta Smith’s love of the country and the therapeutic value of engaging with nature.

About the artist

Bob and Roberta Smith, (born UK, 1963) is a British contemporary artist, activist, writer, broadcaster, musician, art education advocate and keynote speaker. He is a Royal Academician, and in 2017 was awarded an OBE for services to Art. Bob is a patron of the Big Draw and the National Society for Education in Art and Design. He sat on the Tate Modern Council and was recently a trustee of Tate. He is also a Trustee of Art UK and a contributor to the Guardian. He has extensive experience of teaching and is Associate Professor at the Department of Art and Architecture and Design at London Metropolitan University. He has curated numerous public art projects, including the 2013 Art Party to promote contemporary art and advocacy. His works have been exhibited internationally, and are in collections in Europe and the United States. He also hosts a radio show called Make Your Own Damn Music on Resonance FM.

Edition Available

Bird Search, 2009

As part of his commission for the Royal London Hospital, Bob and Roberta Smith kindly created a limited edition print. The purchase of this print will support the Vital Arts programme.

Purchase Here

Other Commissions