A Saskatchewan artist from Red Pheasant Cree Nation, south of North Battleford, has commemorated the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ recent Grey Cup triumph with a special tribute logo. The Riders clinched a thrilling 25-17 victory over the Montreal Alouettes on Sunday, marking Saskatchewan’s first Grey Cup victory since 2013.
Chris Chipak, known for his Indigenous logo designs for the team, crafted a new artwork to honor the occasion. The logo incorporates elements from his previous popular Indigenous logo for the Riders, featuring the Grey Cup and silhouettes of the team’s four other trophies in the background.
In this new design, a single feather emerges from the center of the trophy, illuminated by the radiant sun. Below, a buffalo is depicted, with its mane transforming into roots that extend across the ground. Chipak revealed that the inspiration for this creation struck him as he observed fans sporting his earlier logo during the championship game.
Last season, Chipak introduced the Indigenous Riders logo, which has garnered significant fan support. The logo, symbolizing Truth and Reconciliation, showcases the buffalo, river, sun, and the iconic “S” between two feathers.
The artist emphasized the meaningful impact of Indigenous families embracing his artwork, expressing pride in their connection to the logo. Chipak designed the new Grey Cup tribute to reflect the team’s camaraderie with fans and to honor the emotions and pride associated with the historic victory.
Additionally, Chipak also created a digital illustration of Riders running back A.J. Ouellette in anticipation of the championship game. He aims for the new design to serve as a lasting reminder of the Grey Cup triumph and the unifying power of sports in bringing people together in Saskatchewan.