Renowned Trinidad and Tobago artist and cultural figure Willi Chen is to be honoured posthumously by the University of Trinidad and Tobago with an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree.
UTT’s Honorary Awards Committee approved the award on July 21st, following Chen’s passing.
The degree will be conferred at the university’s graduation ceremony on November 17th, with Chen’s brother, Wilfred, expected to accept the honour on his behalf.
Chen was one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most distinguished cultural figures, with a career spanning more than seven decades.
His work covered literature, sculpture, visual art, theatre and stage design. He wrote more than 20 plays and designed over 45 stage productions, while his public artworks include the monumental Solar Marinorama at the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago.
Chen also served several cultural institutions and mentored generations of artists and writers.
His contributions were recognised with the Hummingbird Medal and Chaconia Medal, both in Silver.
UTT says the honorary degree recognises Chen’s lasting contribution to the nation’s cultural heritage and his legacy of creativity, excellence and public service.