A Saskatchewan artist is commemorating the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Grey Cup triumph with a fresh tribute emblem. The Riders clinched a 25-17 victory over the Montreal Alouettes in a thrilling finale on Sunday night, securing Saskatchewan’s first Grey Cup championship since 2013. To celebrate the win, Chris Chipak, an artist and illustrator from Red Pheasant Cree Nation situated south of North Battleford, designed an artwork incorporating elements from an earlier Indigenous emblem he crafted for the Riders, which has gained significant popularity among fans. The new design showcases the Grey Cup, accompanied by silhouettes of the team’s four other trophies in the background. In the center of the trophy, a single feather rises, illuminated by the radiant sun. Below, a buffalo is depicted at the base, with its mane transforming into roots extending across the ground. Chipak shared that the inspiration for the artwork struck him as he witnessed fans sporting his previous creation during the championship game, expressing his delight in being able to see his work represented each time he watches the game. Last season, Chipak introduced the Indigenous Riders logo, featuring symbols like the buffalo, river, sun, and the iconic “S” 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 fan appreciation, particularly among Indigenous families. Chipak emphasized the logo’s significance to these families, noting their strong sense of ownership and pride in embracing it. The new design, according to Chipak, aims to pay tribute to the team’s accomplishments and the emotional connection established with fans throughout the province. Additionally, ahead of the Grey Cup match, Chipak created a digital illustration of Riders running back A.J. Ouellette, contributing to the excitement leading up to the championship game. Chipak aspires for the new emblem to serve as a lasting memento of the historic victory and the unifying power of sports in bringing together individuals across Saskatchewan.
“Artist Honors Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Grey Cup Win with New Emblem”
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