A Saskatchewan artist has commemorated the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Grey Cup triumph by crafting a special tribute logo. The Riders emerged victorious with a 25-17 win over the Montreal Alouettes in a thrilling contest on Sunday night, capturing their first Grey Cup championship since 2013.
Chris Chipak, an artist and illustrator hailing from Red Pheasant Cree Nation near North Battleford, designed a new artwork inspired by an earlier Indigenous logo he had created for the team, which has gained significant popularity among fans. The fresh design showcases the Grey Cup prominently, accompanied by silhouettes of the team’s four other trophies in the background.
In the logo, a single feather rises from the center of the trophy, illuminated by the radiant sun in the backdrop. Beneath it, a buffalo is depicted at the base, its mane transforming into roots that extend across the ground. Chipak shared that the idea for the artwork struck him while observing fans sporting his earlier logo during the championship game, expressing his joy at witnessing the recognition of his work by supporters.
Previously, Chipak had designed the Indigenous Riders logo, featuring elements like the buffalo, river, sun, and the iconic “S” with two feathers, as part of the team’s Truth and Reconciliation initiative. The logo received a full-color version release earlier this year and has been embraced by fans, especially Indigenous families, which Chipak finds immensely rewarding.
The artist explained that the new design aims to pay homage to the team’s accomplishment, the strong emotional connection with fans throughout the province, and the unity that sports foster among people in Saskatchewan. Additionally, Chipak had created a digital illustration of Riders running back A.J. Ouellette ahead of the Grey Cup final, adding to the excitement leading up to the championship game.
Chipak envisions that the new logo will serve as a lasting reminder of the historic victory and the unifying power of sports within the Saskatchewan community.