Vancouver 2010

The official emblem of the XXI Olympic Winter Games of 2010, in Vancouver, was presented to Canadians in April 2005. The chosen emblem is a contemporary interpretation of the inukshuk, a structure of stacked rocks in human form. In the past, inuksuit were used as guideposts by the Inuit in Canada, who travelled across the vast ice- and snow-covered horizons of the North. The inukshuk gradually became a symbol of friendship, hope and brotherly hospitality welcoming the people of the entire world. Here the emblem embodies Canada and its vast territories, friendship, hope, hospitality, energy and team spirit.

Named "Ilanaaq," the emblem means "friend" in Inuktitut, the language of the Inuit. The traditional inukshuk was the result of a group effort, whose common goal was to hand down its heritage to future generations. The rocks that are used to build the inukshuk are piled one on top of the other, and together they provide balance to the structure. The Ilanaaq is therefore based on mutual assistance and teamwork, just like the Games. This is the message of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The inukshuk: a symbol of hope, friendship and brotherhood...

The physical environment of the country is closely linked to the message of the emblem, which is composed of five brightly coloured rocks, each having a particular meaning. The green and various shades of blue refer to the ocean, forests, mountains, and islands that make up British Columbia. The red represents the maple leaf of the Canadian flag, and the gold represents the sunrises that paint the city skyline and the snow-capped peaks of the neighbouring mountains.

The emblem and its colours will certainly be associated with the official products of the Games, its publications, as well as the decoration of the city and olympic sites.

Further Research

2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games

http://www.vancouver2010.com/en/LookVancouver2010/
Vancouver2010Emblems/