Mia Fernandez

Wish (1001 birds), 2005 - 2007

Porcelain and cobalt oxide, gold leaf
Floor 13 corridor, Royal London Hospital

Installed along the thirteenth floor corridor is part of an expansive artwork composed of 1001 hand built porcelain birds. Each contains a different written wish. Some birds show traces of gold leaf which the artist has used to highlight the idea of the form and positive energy.

The artist has said about the work:

“This piece is a memory, as each bird is numbered, signed and dated, forming an intense dialogue that questions humanity and ideas of identity and hope. I have formed 1001 in relation to my Goanese background where the number is mirrored for prosperity.”

The rest of the birds are scattered in different areas throughout the hospital.

This artwork was generously donated by the artist. She dedicates Wish to her grandfather, Dr. Julius Patrick Adlam, who trained at Barts Hospital in the 1930s.

Mia Fernandes gained her PhD from the Royal College of Art, after studying art at Goldsmiths College and Winchester School of Art.  She has exhibited widely in the UK as well as internationally.  She has lived and worked in China, the USA, Peru, India, Belgium and France, where she currently resides.