(wood and wool), 2023, (work in progress), by Joy Millett

This work responds to the pandemic of bird flu, which has affected many species of birds recently. It will be sited at the popular nature reserve of Farnham Heath from June until October 2023, as part of this year’s art trail. Although there are no cases of bird flu there to date, the public needs to be vigilant in reporting any suspected cases.

The work is being made by wrapping wool around wooden silhouettes of the various birds that can be seen on the Heath. This wrapping action not only feels like drawing the birds by paying attention to their outlines but also, it feels like an act of care towards them. The birds will be hung upside down from trees. This is poignant given the current threat to birdlife and RSPB’s efforts over recent years to increase biodiversity at this site.