Sticky Beak

Going into 2022, Lukas Kasper began a six-month full-time mural artist contract with Wodonga City Council. During this time, he was responsible for building each project from the ground up, handling all aspects including paperwork, permits, designs, confirmations, paint sourcing, and the painting process itself. This role required not only the creation of murals but also the facilitation of large-scale public art projects. One of the standout works completed during this period was Sticky Beak, which became one of ten murals throughout the town.

This mural was painted under the William Street Bridge as part of a new development in Wodonga. The walkway, where the mural is located, is part of a scenic pathway leading into town, surrounded by rivers, trees, and native flora and fauna. Through research, Lukas noticed the presence of cheeky galahs and vibrant pink flowers in the area, inspiring him to merge these elements into a cohesive design. The combination complemented each other perfectly, creating a visually striking and meaningful piece.

To bring additional life to the mural, Lukas incorporated his signature street-art-inspired pattern work. He embedded reflections of the local landscape within the flowers' eyes and ensured every element in the mural contained dynamic, lively shapes. This approach added an inviting and curious energy to the space.

Lukas always designs murals with both distant and up-close viewers in mind, and Sticky Beak was no exception. From afar, the galah makes a bold statement, while up close, intricate details and hidden "Easter eggs," such as the reflections within the flowers, reveal themselves, enhancing the experience for those who engage with the artwork.