ARTIST Grayson Perry has received an honorary degree from Colchester Institute at a graduation ceremony.

Turner Prize winner and former student of Braintree College, Grayson Perry was honoured at the event which saw more than 250 graduates awarded their degrees.

Moot Hall, in Colchester Town Hall, hosted the event, which began on Friday and continued the following day. An informal reception followed at The Minories Art Gallery.

Katherine Wood, director of arts centre Firstsite, based in Colchester, also received an honorary degree.

Jayne Knowles, head of the centre for art and design at Colchester Institute, said: “Both Katherine and Grayson were chosen to receive honorary doctorates because each one has been exceptional in their field of work.

“Katherine has transformed how art is experienced in Colchester with the creation of Firstsite, and Grayson has gone on to achieve huge international success.

“The awards reflect the college’s acknowledgement and support of Essex’s flourishing art scene.”

Mr Perry studied an art foundation course at Braintree College, which later merged with Colchester Institute.

Museums worldwide now hold the flamboyant artist’s work in their public collections, including the British Museum.

Danny Clough, chief executive and principal of Colchester Institute, said: “We are particularly delighted that Grayson and Katherine have accepted honorary doctorates from the University of Essex.”

“The graduation ceremonies were a fantastic way to celebrate the hard work and effort that our students have put in. It is a chance for family and friends to come together and applaud their loved ones’ achievements.

“I have been very impressed with the results this year.”

Degrees, diplomas and certificates were awarded to students for a variety of disciplines from business management to music and performing arts.