The Rotunda Gallery at The Red House in Port of Spain is currently hosting a distinctive portrait exhibition titled “Portraits of Honour: A Tribute to the Nation’s Icons,” showcasing 50 artistic works that recognize both celebrated and unsung contributors to Trinidad and Tobago’s development. Featuring creations from 24 artists across diverse media including painting, photography, sculpture, and digital art, the exhibition aims to redefine the concept of national icons beyond mere celebrity status.
Curated by Chenelle Maharaj, the exhibition intentionally moves beyond conventional fame to honor individuals whose dedication and service have profoundly impacted the nation’s social, cultural, and political landscape. The selected works depict pioneers across multiple domains including politics, science, literature, music, sports, and community service, with notable figures such as the country’s first prime minister Dr. Eric Williams, celebrated pan arranger Jit Samaroo, former national footballer Dwight Yorke, and ace pannist Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe among those represented.
The gallery’s vision emphasizes that national heroes extend beyond prominent figures to include community activists and groups whose lifelong work has left enduring marks on Trinidad and Tobago. While Maharaj noted that many artists gravitated toward familiar cultural icons, she expressed hope that future exhibitions might explore lesser-known contributors in fields such as science, medicine, and women’s leadership.
Strategically aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), the exhibition strengthens collective identity through cultural preservation. By presenting these narratives visually, the gallery aims to foster conversations about representation, remembrance, and national narrative construction.
Following the conclusion of Portraits of Honour on January 30, The Rotunda Gallery will transition to exploring Carnival heritage with “Walking with the Spirits: The Legacy of the Moko Jumbie” from February 2-27. This subsequent exhibition will examine the cultural significance of Moko Jumbies as guardians of tradition and living symbols of resilience, further emphasizing the gallery’s commitment to preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural legacy.