Wally the Galah (Reproduction Print)

"Wally" is the fifth of a series of seven Australian birds, from my "Flummoxed Flock" series. This piece was drawn with permission from a reference photo of a wet galah by Sheila Smart (http://www.pbase.com/sheila). The original was stolen off the wall after Christmas 2023, but was recovered after a week after state-wide media attention with a lot of "Where's Wally... the galah" in the public press, but he is back proudly sitting in the Cardiology waiting area of the Lyell McEwin Hospital bringing joy to staff, patients and visitors alike.

The galah (/ɡəˈlɑː/; Eolophus roseicapilla), also known as the pink and grey cockatoo or rose-breasted cockatoo is the only species within genus Eolophus of the cockatoo family. Found throughout Australia, it is among the most common of the cockatoos. With its distinctive pink and grey plumage and its bold and loud behaviour, it is a familiar sight in the wild and increasingly in urban areas. It has benefited from the change in the landscape since European colonisation, and appears to be replacing the Major Mitchell's cockatoo in parts of its range.

"Galah" is also derogatory Australian slang, synonymous with 'fool', 'clown' or 'idiot'. Because of the bird's distinctive bright pink colour, it is also used for gaudy dress. A detailed description of the Australian slang term can be found in the standup comedy performance of Paul Hogan, titled Stand Up Hoges. Another famous user of the slang "galah" is Alf Stewart from Home and Away, who is often heard saying "Flaming galah!" when he is riled by somebody.

The Australian representative team of footballers that played a series of test matches of international rules football against Irish sides in the late 1960s adopted the nickname "The Galahs" after a disparaging reference to their uniform.

Angry Birds includes a pink bird named Stella who is intended to be based on a Galah.

His name, "Wally" is yet another play on words - connotations similar to 'galah' in Australian slang.

The bird is the focus of this large painting and depicts him peering curiously at the viewer. There are so many shades of magenta and orange in this piece and due to its striking size, it deserves a place of prime attention, however as you can see from the insitu scenes, he could suit a lounge, living room or bedroom. Wherever he resides, he will draw attention and conversation.... but hopefully not stolen!

Please be advised colours may also differ depending on the device you are viewing this from.

The original has been sold, but you can still own your own copy of Wally so you will always know where he is! A range of options of beautiful reproduction prints are available and all sizes show the exquisite details of the original. The paper prints are a new affordable addition. Both sizes can be accommodated by frames in large stores such as K-mart, Ikea, Big W, Target, Spotlight etc. You can find a very affordable frame to accommodate all four of my Flummoxed flock series in 21 cm square dimensions if you prefer (much easier to hang if it is in one frame!). This is an amazing gift idea!

• 40 cm square reproduction canvas print. Framed with natural Tasmanian oak
• 90 cm square reproduction canvas print. Rolled, and shipped in a tube (will require stretching and framing)
• 90 cm square reproduction canvas print, Framed with natural Tasmanian oak
• 21 cm square paper print (with individual backing and plastic sleeve)
• 29.7 cm square paper print (with individual backing and plastic sleeve).

Other sizes/options are available by enquiry.

Please note the framed versions will not be shipped internationally (please enquire for a shipping quote).

These are all print by demand, please allow up to two weeks (10 business days) for delivery.