Aussie Outdoor Art #1 - Blackall, Queensland

The Australian landscape has provided the inspiration behind many creative and artistic endeavours.

Some, for example, use their powers for good, and write poetry, books or music.

Others, on the other hand, produce blog posts about Australia's Scenic Public Toilets.

BUT … there are those who capture the essence of OZ by creating artistic installations that reflect and define the local landscape.

Central western Queensland's Blackall harnessed this creativity in 2007 when metal sculptor Richard Moffatt created three art works as resident artist at the local festival.

'Eagles Nest', down by the Barcoo river, is a self-explanatory representation of Wedge-tailed Eagle – or 'Wedgie' - Australia's largest raptor. Travellers are more likely to see this magnificent bird on the side of the road helping itself to some fresh roadkill – or soaring high above on the thermals looking for its next meal. Anecdotal evidence even blames the Wedgie for newborn lamb disappearances! Which of course casts it in the role of enemy.

So this sculpture depicting it in a parenting role shows a more accessible aspect of the Wedgie's character – even if this trait isn't always one readily accepted by a farming community.

My psychic powers are not yet strong enough to divine the artist's true intent – but isn't there something universal about depicting a foe in a more friendly light?

Or is that just me??