The Viceregal Lion
  1. The Governor General of Canada
Heraldry Today

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Governor General's Performing Arts Awards Foundation

Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of a Badge
August 15, 1994
Vol. II, p. 337

Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.


Blazon

Badge

On a roundel Bleu-Celeste two lions rampant respectant each crowned with a coronet Or érablé and garnished with jewels Gules supporting together a torch Or enflamed proper all within a border Azure edged and inscribed ARTES NOS TENENT ET INSPIRANT in letters Or;

Motto

ARTES NOS TENENT ET INSPIRANT;


Symbolism

Badge

The lions refer to the office of the Governor General, the official colours of which are blue and gold. The coronets of maple leaves emphasize that this is a Canadian award. The torch symbolizes the aspiration towards excellence of the candidates for the award.

Motto

This Latin phrase means “The arts engage and inspire us”.


Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on December 3, 1994, in Volume 128, page 4584 of the Canada Gazette.


Artist Information

Creator(s)
Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter
Linda Nicholson

Calligrapher
Judith Bainbridge


Recipient Information

Civil Institution
Foundation / charitable body