Saint Lucia's renowned painter knighted

Friday, April 9, 2010 – Saint Lucian born, world renowned muralist and master painter Honourable Sir Dunstan St Omer has officially been knighted.

The investiture ceremony was held last Friday at Government House where the Governor General on the advice of Her Majesty the Queen, invested Sir Dunstan St. Omer with the Insignia of a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG).

Although it was his moment to shine St Omer said his knighthood is a great achievement for his family in particular his wife with whom he has shared many unforgettable moments over the years.

“The feeling that I have now is fantastic. My wife is now Lady St. Omer—a title she never expected. It is a reward after so many years of raising the entire family including me. She was always guiding me. I am very proud for her and the children; my children are very proud too.”

Born in 1927, Sir Dunstan St. Omer was knighted for his contributions to the arts in Saint Lucia, the Caribbean, and the world at large.

The UK Telegraph has described him as “the Michelangelo of the Caribbean”.

Speaking at the Investiture Ceremony Prime Minister Honourable Stephenson King said Sir Dunstan’s achievement should serve as inspiration for all Saint Lucians to embark on greater community gestures.

“I would like to commend you, Sir Dunstan St. Omer for leading us in creative thinking and artistic work, and for driving us to think outside the box of traditions and old static conventions. I congratulate you and thank you for serving as an inspiration to all Saint Lucians.”

The Honourable Sir Dunstan St. Omer, who joined the long list of esteemed individuals to have been conferred such an honour, says his love for the arts was born from a commitment to liberate his homeland during colonial times when being black was unacceptable in most circles.

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