The University of Lethbridge is embarking on a significant project to create a new Blackfoot mark that will represent the university and its deep connection to Blackfoot culture. As ULethbridge continues to grow and evolve, it’s time for this mark to reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Blackfoot people and to honour their ongoing contributions to the University community.

This mark will symbolize the strength, resilience and unity that define both Blackfoot culture and the University of Lethbridge. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the historical and cultural significance of Blackfoot traditions, while also embracing the future, where education, collaboration and community-building are central. 

This project is a meaningful step toward fostering deeper respect and inclusion, reflecting ULethbridge's commitment to honouring the land and its people. The mark will be used across various applications—becoming a lasting symbol of unity and connection. We invite Blackfoot artists to bring their vision to life, creating a mark that celebrates the past, present and future of both Blackfoot culture and the University of Lethbridge.

 

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Call for Artist Submissions: Blackfoot Mark Design for the University of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics

Overview

The University of Lethbridge invites Blackfoot artists to submit designs for a new mark that will represent the institution, with a focus on Pronghorn Athletics. The mark will be used across various platforms, including jerseys, digital media, apparel and other branding materials. While its primary use will be in athletics, it will also serve as a broader symbol of ULethbridge's connection to Blackfoot culture and heritage.

This project seeks a design that embodies strength, resilience and unity, while integrating meaningful Blackfoot symbols and storytelling. The final mark will combine contemporary design with traditional Blackfoot motifs, serving as a symbol of cultural respect and the University’s ties to the land and people it serves.
 

Project Goals

• Primary Goal: Create a versatile Blackfoot-inspired mark for use in athletics and across the university's branding (digital, print, apparel, etc.).
• Secondary Goal: Develop a complementary design element (e.g., border, pattern) for smaller applications like merchandise and digital branding.

 

Design Requirements

Scalability & Versatility

The mark should work across a variety of sizes and applications—from small uses like merchandise to large-scale banners and signage. It must retain its impact and legibility at both small and large scales.

Cultural Integrity

The design should honour Blackfoot cultural symbols and values. Artists are encouraged to explore motifs such as the pronghorn, traditional dwellings and other meaningful markings that convey themes of strength, unity and a deep connection to the land.

Symbolism & Storytelling

Consider how Blackfoot traditions emphasize movement, unity and resilience—qualities that align with the University’s mission. The pronghorn, symbolizing speed, agility and endurance, should be a central element in the design.

Medium Flexibility

Designs should be adaptable for use across various mediums, from digital art to traditional forms like painting or beading. The final mark should maintain its identity across different formats.

Secondary Design Element

A complementary element (e.g., border, pattern) should be designed to pair with the primary mark for smaller, secondary applications.
 

Submission Guidelines

Artists should submit the following materials:

1. Portfolio (PDF): Showcase previous work, especially designs incorporating Indigenous or Blackfoot themes. Demonstrate versatility in digital, print and traditional media.
2. Concept Description (PDF): Explain the story behind the proposed mark, its symbolism and how it reflects Blackfoot culture. Describe its scalability and how it fits with ULethbridge’s values and athletics identity.
3. Supplementary Materials: Provide sketches or mockups of the design, along with links to your portfolio or social media for additional work.

Application Deadline:

January 31, 2025

How to Apply:

Submit all materials to taylor.crozon@uleth.ca.

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Creativity and originality
• Cultural authenticity and alignment with Blackfoot traditions
• Scalability and versatility
• Aesthetic quality and alignment with the University of Lethbridge’s identity
• Adaptability across various mediums

Compensation

Selected artists will receive a stipend. Further details will be provided upon selection.
 

Download the Creative Brief

For more details about the project and submission requirements, please download the full Creative Brief PDF.

Join Us in Celebrating Blackfoot Culture

We encourage Blackfoot artists to participate in this meaningful project, creating a mark that honours Blackfoot heritage and symbolizes the energy, movement and unity that define the Pronghorn teams and the broader University community.

For inquiries, please contact:
Taylor Crozon
Email: taylor.crozon@uleth.ca