Tracey Emin (b. 1963)

Emin's work is recognised for her compassion and wit, and in Birds 2012 she shares her feelings and beliefs through creating what she describes as a ‘love letter’. This print depicts a line drawing in blue ink of two birds appearing to kiss beneath the words, ‘you inspire me with your determination And I love you’. Emin dedicated it to the values of strength and determination motivated by the Paralympics. The birds, a motif which Emin frequently uses, symbolise freedom, whilst the use of the text expresses personal thoughts and emotion. When combined, they emphasise and reflect upon the talented and inspiring Paralympics athletes who competed in the London 2012 Paralympic Games.