- The Governor General of Canada
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Steven David Van Zoost
Windsor, Nova Scotia
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
October 20, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 223
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Blazon
Arms
Argent a bend its lower edge embowed from fess point to base Azure, all cotised Bleu Céleste;
Crest
A barn swallow displayed Bleu Céleste, winged and queued Azure, between two laurel branches Argent;
Motto
ROOTED IN LEARNING;
Motto
GROUNDED IN LOVE;
Symbolism
Arms
For Dr. Van Zoost, blue and white represent open spaces, imagination and sensitivity. For him, white also symbolizes enlightenment and the infinity of questions explored by philosophers, and by extension his career in philosophy and teaching. Blue evokes waterways, and therefore fluidity of thought as well as travelling and adventure. The dark and pale blue stripes embody the changing shoreline of the dominant feature of his home landscape in Nova Scotia, the tidal river, with its flaring end flowing into the Bay of Fundy.
Crest
Barn swallows are common in the salt marshes near Dr. Van Zoost’s home. As a musician, he admires their singing and sees the barn swallow as an embodiment of music. With its outstretched wings conveying the idea of a dramatic performance, the songbird becomes a symbol of art in general. Combined with the laurel leaves, it alludes to a deep love of nature, the arts and learning. The laurel wreath is a symbol of scholarly excellence; as such, it refers to Dr. Van Zoost’s academic and professional achievements.
Motto
This phrase alludes to the precept that “learning is living,” which Dr. Van Zoost learned from his mother.
Motto
This phrase alludes to the precept that “loving is living,” which Dr. Van Zoost learned from his father.