One of Jamaica’s foremost sculptors, Basil Watson has won, by popular vote, the United Kingdom’s 2023 Public Statues and Sculptures Association (PSSA) Marsh Award for the most popular new sculpture shortlisted.

Watson’s The National Windrush Monument, erected at the Waterloo Station in London, was among several artworks shortlisted for the award.

On the PSSA’s website, Watson described the sculpture as his empire windrush voyage, literally and figuratively transporting him along a journey through his past, present and future.

Decked in their special attire, along with their bulging suitcases, Watson said the artwork clearly demonstrates that this was a special journey and a seismic moment in history.

He noted that the monument, means so much to so many, and it has been a great honour to have been challenged with the responsibility of creating it.

Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith and Education Minister Fayval Williams have taken to social media to congratulate the Jamaican sculptor.