SPECIAL OLYMPICS MEMORIAL BY JOHN BEHAN
Two stylised figures with the Olympic flame – the logo of the Special Olympics World Games Ireland 2003.
Special Olympics is an international organisation dedicated to providing sport opportunities for individuals with a learning disability.
In June 2003, the Special Olympics World Summer Games were held in Ireland.
This was the first time the Summer Games were held outside the United States. 160 delegations involving 7000 athletes and 3000 coaches from all over the world participated in 21 sports.
Team 2003 comprised individuals and families who volunteered their time, talents and skills to ensure the wonderful success of these Games. Each member of Team 2003 is recognised here.
Their legacy remains in the positive attitude throughout the island of Ireland towards individuals with a learning disability.
John Behan (born 1938) is an Irish sculptor from Dublin. He studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, and Ealing Art College, London, and Oslo's Royal Academy School.
He helped establish the Project Arts Centre, Dublin in 1967 and the Dublin Art Foundry. Notable sculptures include Arrival, commissioned by the Irish Government and presented to the United Nations in 2000 and Wings of the World in Shenzhen, China, 1991. He is a member of Aosdána.
The Liberty Tree sculpture in Carlow, designed by John Behan, commemorates the 1798 Rising of the United Irishmen. Several hundred rebels were slain in Carlow town and their remains are buried in the 'Croppies Grave', in Graiguecullen, County Carlow.
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