Locket

Maria Dickin, founder of the British charity organization People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), created the Dickin Medal to recognize the exceptional bravery and dedication of animals that have served in military conflict. This prestigious medal is often called the "Animal Victoria Cross" which is the highest military decoration awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. It is presented to animals, including search and rescue dogs, messenger pigeons, and others, for their acts of valor and bravery while serving in the military or civil defense forces. During the two world wars, the Dickin Medal was awarded to 34 pigeons who played important roles in the conflicts. One installation inspired by the medal, called "Locket," featured birdseed placed where the inverted bird's heart would be located on the floor, with light shining through a negative image of a pigeon above. This installation aimed to highlight the loyalty and devotion between birds and their owners.

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