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Winnipeg, Manitoba
Grant of Arms, Supporters and Flag
January 15, 2003
Vol. IV, p. 265
Arms of The Asper FoundationBlazonBarry Azure and Or a pile reversed Gules; SymbolismThe alternating bands of blue and gold, colours which have significance for the Asper family, symbolize a series of steps that a person or organization can take while striving to better their situation. The red shape evokes both the "A" of Asper and the notion of reaching upward for excellence. |
CrestBlazonIssuant from a coronet erablé Or a demi lion Gules charged on the shoulder with a Magen David and holding in its dexter paw a torch Or; SymbolismThe coronet represents the Foundation's service to Canada. The lion symbolizes both the Jewish heritage of the creators of the Foundation and the spirit of its work, reaching out and making a difference in a great variety of situations. The Magen David, also known as the Shield or Star of David, refers to the Foundation's support of many Jewish community institution and initiatives. The torch has long been a symbol of striving for enlightenment, and in this instance, it represents the way in which help from the Foundation enables recipients to take a comprehensive look at their projects and use the support to best advantage. |
MottoBlazonLEAD BY EXAMPLE; SymbolismThis is a key element in the Foundation's philosophy. |
SupportersBlazonTwo eagles Or membered Gules each gorged with a collar Azure pendent therefrom a hurt charged with a hand, standing on a mound of prairie grass Or above barry wavy Azure and Argent; SymbolismThe eagle is a bird noted for its strength and acuity of sight; therefore, it represents the ability of the officers of the Foundation to seek out and identify needs and respond to them. The gold hands are a reference to one of Mr. Asper's suggestions for a motto, "A helping hand". The grass and the blue and white wavy bars represent the Prairies and the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Taken together these refer to Winnipeg, the Foundation's home site. |
Flag of The Asper FoundationBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on December 20, 2003 in Volume 137, page 3981 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority PainterEva Pilar-Cass CalligrapherJudith Bainbridge Recipient TypeCivil Institution
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