"John Behan‘s ‘Birds in Flight‘ Takes Center Stage at Woodward Auction"
Cork, Ireland—Next Saturday, November 23, Woodward Auctioneers will host an online sale featuring the extraordinary bronze sculpture "Birds in Flight" by renowned contemporary artist John Behan. This exceptional piece is expected to fetch between €8,000 and €12,000 and is part of an auction that highlights Behan’s lifelong commitment to social justice and creativity. A new feature-length film titled "Odyssey," directed by Donald Taylor-Black, will further illuminate Behan’s impactful work with migrant camps in Greece, celebrating his pioneering contributions to both art and social causes.
A Celebration of Art and Activism
As a sculptor in his mid-80s, John Behan has made significant strides in the art world while also dedicating much of his time to humanitarian efforts. Behan has been actively involved in providing art workshops to migrants and refugees in Athens, integrating his artistic skills with a fervent commitment to social welfare. "Art can be a powerful tool for healing and communication," Behan has often stated, emphasizing the empowerment art brings to those experiencing displacement and hardship.
The upcoming auction will commence at 10 AM and will feature a total of around 150 lots, including significant silver pieces, contemporary artworks, and selected antiques. Among them is Behan’s "Birds in Flight," which symbolizes freedom and resilience—a fitting tribute to the artist’s advocacy for marginalized communities.
Silver Treasures and Unique Artworks
In addition to Behan’s striking sculpture, the auction presents a rich selection of silver items, including:
- A Cork silver strawberry dish by William Egan and Sons, Cork, 1966 (€800-€1,200)
- A 1974 sauceboat from the same maker (€400-€800)
- A circa 1790 cream jug by Samuel Green, Cork (€700-€900)
- A circa 1745 tablespoon by George Hodder (€350-€450)
- A circa 1790 small bright cut ladle by Carden Terry (€200-€300)
Artworks to be auctioned include "Fisher’s Quay, Youghal" by Norah McGuinness, estimated at €2,000-€3,000, and "The Old Houses at World’s End" by John C Bosanquet, valued between €300-€500. Notably, there’s a nostalgic watercolour of the old Cork Opera House by Neil Kelleher, with proceeds from its sale earmarked for creating Ireland’s longest wisteria tunnel at Curraghbeg Nurseries in Ovens.
Antique Furniture and Local Artistry
The event also promises antique furniture options that reflect both historical craftsmanship and modern affordability. Notable items include:
- A small inlaid William and Mary bureau (€500-€800)
- A Queen Anne walnut chest on chest (€500-€800)
- A Victorian D-end dining table (€400-€600)
- An Irish Georgian bookcase (€400-€600)
This diverse selection caters to collectors and home decorators alike, providing opportunities for remarkable finds at competitive prices.
Preview and Auction Details
The public is invited to view the auction lots at Woodward Auctioneers from 2 PM to 4 PM today and tomorrow, with further viewing times set for 10 AM to 4 PM daily throughout next week. For enthusiasts and collectors, this sale represents both a celebration of local artistry and a chance to own a piece of contemporary history.
Engaging with the Community
As the art and auction world converges in Cork, Behan’s "Birds in Flight" shines not only as a visual masterpiece but also as a beacon of hope, paying tribute to the resilience of those who have faced challenges. This sale is an opportunity for art lovers to contribute to social causes while enriching their collections. We invite you to share your thoughts on this significant event or any experiences you may have had with Behan’s work in the comments below. How do you see art intersecting with social justice?
For more insights into similar initiatives or notable auction results, be sure to check out our related articles on Shorty-News, or explore industry analyses on sites like TechCrunch and The Verge.
Happy bidding!
