Arms of Riley James Parker

Blazon

Gules a three-eyed great grey owl displayed, on a chief Argent a serpent forming an infinity symbol and biting its tail Gules;

Symbolism

Red is Mr. Parker’s favourite colour and, for him, symbolizes love and fidelity. He has a particular affinity for owls as symbols of academia and wisdom. Moreover, the great grey owl is the provincial bird of Manitoba, his home province. The idea of the “third” eye, here applied to the owl, is a way of describing heightened perception, thus highlighting Mr. Parker’s love of knowledge and research. The serpent echoes the symbolism of the owl as it is also considered a symbol of wisdom. The two animals are often seen as predator and prey but depicted here as equals, the owl and serpent underline the importance of balance.