John Behan (sculptor) facts for kids

John Behan's The Mariner, a sculpture on Dublin's North Wall Quay.

John Behan is a famous Irish sculptor born in Dublin in 1938. He is known for creating amazing sculptures, often from bronze. His art can be found in many places around the world.

John Behan's Journey as an Artist

John Behan studied art in several different places. He went to the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, Ireland. He also studied at Ealing Art College in London, England. Later, he learned more at Oslo's Royal Academy School in Norway.

He is a member of Aosdána, which is a special group for Irish artists. Being part of Aosdána means he is recognized for his important work in the arts.

Helping Other Artists

John Behan didn't just create his own art. He also helped other artists. In 1967, he helped start the Project Arts Centre in Dublin. This place is a hub for different kinds of art. He also helped create the Dublin Art Foundry, where artists can cast their sculptures in metal.

He showed his work in important art events too. These included the Irish Exhibition of Living Art and shows at the Royal Hibernian Academy.

Famous Sculptures by John Behan

John Behan has created many well-known sculptures. His art often tells important stories or remembers big events.

Arrival and Wings of the World

One of his famous works is called Arrival. The Irish government asked him to create this sculpture. It was given to the United Nations in the year 2000. This shows how important his art is on a global scale.

Another notable sculpture is Wings of the World. This piece was made in 1991 and is located in Shenzhen, China. It shows how his art connects different cultures.

National Famine Memorial

In the mid-1990s, the Irish government asked John Behan to create a very important memorial. This was the National Famine Memorial. It was made to remember the terrible suffering and loss during the Great Famine in Ireland.

The memorial is located in Murrisk, County Mayo. Mary Robinson, who was the President of Ireland at the time, officially opened it on July 20, 1997. This sculpture helps people remember a sad but important part of Irish history.

The Liberty Tree Sculpture

John Behan also designed The Liberty Tree sculpture in Carlow. This sculpture remembers the 1798 Rising. This was a time when the United Irishmen fought for freedom.

During this rebellion, many rebels were killed in Carlow town. Their bodies are buried in a place called the 'Croppies Grave' in Graiguecullen, County Carlow. The Liberty Tree sculpture helps people remember their bravery and sacrifice.

See also

• List of public art in Cork
• List of public art in Galway city