WALKING TOUR: Canberra's Social History Through Its Public Art

Discover more than 60 years of Canberra's social history through the city's public artworks on this engaging gallery and walking tour led by historian Rohan Goyne.

Beginning at the Canberra Museum and Gallery with works by Tom Bass and Frank Hinder, the tour steps out into Civic Square to meet Ethos — and the surprising story of how the capital got its very first piece of public art. From there, the tour continues through Petrie Plaza and along City Walk, uncovering the tales behind the Big Little Man, the beloved Merry-Go-Round, Icarus, and the Ainslie Sheep.

Take a pause beneath a little-known masterpiece at the Canberra Centre portico, commissioned for an opening performed by a Prime Minister, before continuing to the Canberra Times Fountain - a timely stop as the newspaper marks its centenary milestone. The walk concludes with a journey up Ainslie Avenue to the Canberra Memorial and returning to CMAG.

Enjoy a comfortable 40-minute walk through six decades of a city told in bronze, stone and light.