The Big Powerful Owl

The Big Powerful Owl is a large sculpture made of cast composite, steel, and hardwood located at the intersection of Belconnen Way and Benjamin Way in Canberra. It stands approximately 8 meters tall and depicts Australia's largest owl species.

Bruce Armstrong created this work in 2011 as part of the artsACT public art initiative that aimed to bring art throughout Canberra. The sculpture was commissioned under this community-focused program.

Locals refer to the sculpture by alternative names that reflect its distinctive appearance. This playful interpretation has made it a talking point within the community.

You can park at the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets and walk across the street to reach the sculpture easily. The location is open to the public and accessible during daylight hours.

The sculpture has been targeted by graffiti and vandalism multiple times, requiring significant cleanup efforts over the years. These incidents reveal how strongly the community reacts to the work.

GPS coordinates: -35.24759,149.06752

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:59