Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird.   

David Attenborough 

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Birdland invited a select group of artists to undertake research and develop works in response to collections (specimens) or the observation of birds in the natural habitat. Based on the science of ornithology (animate and inanimate) artists participated in field trips, sound walks, workshops and were given access to the bird specimen collections of both Mount Victoria Museum and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Blackheath. The challenge of preserving ornithological collections, including dust and pest control was also considered.  

Artists with experience in museology, zoology and/or natural history and/or having produced work on in those areas were selected for the museum exhibition. Works exhibited were developed in response to the collection of Charles Melbourne Ward and other specimens held in the Museum.   

Held throughout November 2019, the exhibition was opened by Rebecca Dallwitz, Senior Object Conservator of the Australian National Maritime Museum.

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