James Walsh (convict)

He is known for artworks depicting the early Swan River Colony and native Australian life.

He is also thought to have been responsible for a number of fine-quality classical drawings on the wall of Fremantle Prison in Western Australia, which were accidentally uncovered beneath whitewash in 1945.

[1] He arrived in Western Australia on board Ramillies[2] on 10 August 1854 and was held at Fremantle convict establishment for two years.

At some time during this sentence, he is thought to have drawn intricate drawings of religious figures, Roman and Greek mythological depictions, and images of Queen Victoria on the walls of his small cell.

Walsh is also credited with several artworks displayed at the Art Gallery of Western Australia depicting the early Swan River Colony, including a set of twelve watercolour sketches depicting native Australian life.