Forget Rock Chicks here come the Rock Finches

Now showing at the curve space at The Barbican, is a new take on rock chicks - Rock Finches! 

Designed by artist Celeste Boursier-Mougenot, the large curved space has been set up in two parts - the first a strobe lit, long dark atmospheric corridor with a background hum and dimly lit projection of guitar playing on the walls. The second half has been kitted out with electric guitars & amplifiers, basses and cymbals. Then a flock of male and female zebra finches have been let loose to make music. 

The result is totally unexpected in both the impact on the visitor and the melodic nature of the finches daily activities. As a visitor you wander unprotected through this flock of tiny delicate chirping finches and musical instruments (so be careful where you step). I have been twice and each time has left me uplifted and with a very very broad smile on my face. 

You can see the little chaps performing on YouTube by clicking here. Over 583,000 people have already had a look.

I can't recommend this highly enough. Admission is free and the exhibition runs until the May 23rd. Entry is limited to 25 people so plan to go at a quiet time.


Visitors are assured by the gallery that the welfare of the finches is very carefully monitored.