- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Steven David Van Zoost
Windsor, Nova Scotia
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
October 20, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 223
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
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;
Flag
A pennant Bleu Céleste charged with a fess Azure edged Argent, in hoist on a square flaunch Argent a barn swallow volant contourné Bleu Céleste winged and queued Azure;
Badge
A smelt leaping Bleu Céleste finned and queued Azure in front of a torch Argent enflamed Azure, Bleu Céleste and Argent;
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.
Flag
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Badge
The smelt is a small fish that Dr. Van Zoost frequently had to eat during his childhood although he loathed its taste. It represents for him the act of surmounting one’s dislikes, perceptions and fears. The torch embodies his expertise in education.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on January 1, 1900, in Volume 0, page 0 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Steven Van Zoost and Fabienne Fusade, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Melissa Aberin
Calligrapher
Kathy Feig
Recipient Information
Individual