John Behan, R.H.A. b.1938

'My art is related to ancient culture as well as to modern technique. I do feel that every artist, be they poet or writer or sculptor or painter, must have roots, roots that will tap into the ground...' (John Behan)

The artist's ongoing exploration of links between the past, present and future is exemplifed by the monumental nature of Famine Ship referring to the great Irish famine of 1846-1849 whilst at the same time referencing more universal notions of life and death.  Executed in 2006, the present work is unique and strongly relates to one of Ireland's most well known monuments, Coffin Ship, designed by Behan and installed at Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo in 1997. The large-scale sculpture faces west overlooking the Atlantic Ocean symbolizing the departure of so many emigrants who sailed away in that direction.