A Saskatchewan-based artist is commemorating the recent Grey Cup triumph of the Saskatchewan Roughriders by unveiling a unique tribute emblem. Following a thrilling victory over the Montreal Alouettes with a scoreline of 25-17 on Sunday, the Riders clinched their first Grey Cup championship since 2013.
Renowned artist and illustrator, Chris Chipak, hailing from Red Pheasant Cree Nation near North Battleford, crafted a distinctive design inspired by an earlier Indigenous logo he had crafted for the team, which has gained immense popularity among fans. The new logo showcases the Grey Cup along with silhouettes of the team’s four other trophies in the background.
In this captivating artwork, a single feather emerges from the center of the trophy, illuminated by the radiant sun in the distance. Beneath it, a buffalo is depicted at the base, with its mane transforming into roots extending across the ground. Chipak shared that the idea for this design struck him as he observed fans donning his previous work during the championship game.
Last season, Chipak introduced the Indigenous Riders logo featuring symbols like the buffalo, river, sun, and the iconic “S” nestled between two feathers as part of the team’s Truth and Reconciliation initiative. The logo, released in full color earlier this year, has garnered significant favor among supporters, leaving a lasting impact on Chipak due to the warm embrace by Indigenous families.
The artist emphasized that this new design aims to pay homage to the pride and sentiment associated with the victory, as well as the strong bond the team has forged with fans throughout the province. Additionally, Chipak also created a digital illustration of Riders running back A.J. Ouellette in anticipation of the Grey Cup game, further fueling the excitement leading up to the championship.
Chipak envisions that this fresh design will serve as a poignant reminder of the historic win and the unifying power of sports in bringing communities together across Saskatchewan.