The African Grey parrot is among the most intelligent birds in the human world. They are able to learn a vast vocabulary and not just memorize it but also understand it. This painting called “African Grey: Gonzo” is a portrait of a lively parrot named Gonzo, owned by friend and fellow artist Lora Duguay. Gonzo, like most African greys, have a personality and vocabulary all their own! Along with standard words, like “hey!”, “gimme”, and “what’re you doin?,” Gonzo has also learned intricate sounds and names. He has learned the names of his previous owner’s dogs and current owner’s dogs. He can blow kisses, say goodnight, bark like a dog, sneeze, cough, and blow his nose. Gonzo also has a talent for music. If someone says “Rock ‘n’ Roll, Gonzo, Rock ‘n’ Roll” he’ll bob up and down, kick up a leg, and dance. He will dance to any tune he likes, or even his own songs. He loves to sing his own version of “Bad boys” and interprets it as “Bad bird, bad bird, whatcha gonna do…” Along the same line he’ll say his own name and call “help, help, call the cops!” Like most birds, though, he loves attention. If he is not getting it he’ll scream at the top of his lungs to get noticed and that may mean interrupted phone calls or guest visits! On his kinder side he stays as close to Lora as he can and loves to be petted, ride on a shoulder, and even shower! And just when you think he’s calm he’ll say certain profanities…courtesy of what he’s already learned. Even if you don’t have a parrot as talkative as Gonzo, or a parrot at all, enjoy the laughter and beauty you know he’ll be bringing Lora Duguay and her family for many, many, many years to come! “African Grey: Gonzo” 8x10” acrylic on canvas. © Cara Bevan 2009