News Summary
The Big Blue Bug, a giant termite sculpture in Providence, Rhode Island, has been ranked the 10th ugliest public art piece in America. Although this ranking may seem unfavorable, the sculpture remains a beloved local landmark. Built in 1980, it measures 58 feet long and is a notable advertisement for a pest control service. The survey, conducted by Rivers Wall Art Company, saw participation from 2,000 Americans and reflects the varied opinions on public art.
Providence, Rhode Island – The Big Blue Bug, a giant termite sculpture that has become a recognizable feature along Interstate 95 in Providence, has recently been ranked as the 10th ugliest public art piece in America in a survey conducted by Rivers Wall Art Company. The survey included participation from 2,000 Americans who were asked to identify what they considered to be the least appealing public art in the United States.
Despite its new ranking, the Big Blue Bug remains a beloved local landmark. However, the survey described it as “garish” and noted that it is seen as more absurd than impressive. The sculpture, which is also the world’s largest Big Blue Bug, was ranked just below the Giant Safety Pin in Louisiana and just above “Foamhenge” in Virginia.
Measuring 58 feet long, 9 feet tall, and weighing in at 2 tons, the sculpture is constructed of steel and covered with fiberglass. It was built in 1980 at a cost of $30,000, and it has become a ubiquitous symbol in the area, often serving more as an advertisement for Big Blue Bug Solutions, a pest control service, rather than a traditional roadside attraction.
The Big Blue Bug is prominently visible from I-95, particularly after drivers navigate the Thurbers Avenue curve and just before the I-195E split. It was conceived by artist George Cardono as an eye-catching alternative to conventional roadside billboards, featuring bulging eyes and large antennae that dominate the local skyline.
The statue was named Nibbles Woodaway, a name created in 1990 by 87-year-old Geraldine Perry, who won a contest for naming it and was awarded a trip to Disney World. In 2002, the Big Blue Bug underwent a restoration that led to many inquiries about its absence during the process. Remarkably, the structure is designed to be hurricane-proof, ensuring its longevity against severe weather conditions.
Another Rhode Island landmark, the Big Milk Can, was also noted in the survey, coming in at 14th on the ugliest public art list. This landmark is located along Rt. 146 in North Smithfield and has been a fixture since the late 1920s or 1930s.
Besides being recognized for its unusual appearance, the Big Blue Bug is also a popular holiday symbol in Rhode Island. The structure kicks off the holiday season annually with a special lighting ceremony that draws visitors and locals alike, further cementing its place in the region’s culture.
In summary, while the Big Blue Bug may have received a title that questions its aesthetic appeal, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Rhode Island residents. The survey results highlight the diverse opinions on public art in America and reflect the various ways communities embrace their unique landmarks.
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Holiday Lighting Ceremony Celebrates Nibbles Woodaway
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Big Blue Bug Ranks Among Ugliest Public Art
- Turn to 10: Big Blue Bug Naming Contest
- ABC6: Big Blue Bug Holiday Lighting Ceremony
- PCT Online: DeJesus Retires at Big Blue Bug Solutions
- Google Search: Big Blue Bug Providence
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
