One of the formative influences in his life was Paddy McElroy, a blacksmith who taught him how to structure metal into expressive artworks. This experience and his years working with Dublin Art Foundry have given him a complete mastery of his materials. He describes himself first and foremost as a craftsman. He is very disciplined and has a terrific work ethic. He is a great traveller and soaks up much of the local culture, and records it in his sketchbook whether it be in Vietnam or Malta or Inishbofin. Many of these sketches end up in bronze as can be seen in this show.

John is a voracious reader and literary influences are invariably featured in his work, but he has many other interests as well as the ability to put his own original interpretation on virtually any subject. He has done private and public commissions, both here and in many countries abroad. He could be described as a father-figure in Irish sculpture today. He is generous with his skills and talents and experience. Many honours have been bestowed on him for his achievements.

A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since his first exhibition in Galway, but one of the great constants in Irish art in that time has been John Behan and his work. It is a pleasure to host this important exhibition in his seventieth year.