Case StudyJun 25, 2025

Kelly Small RGD designs stamps for Canada Post, celebrating 2SLGBTQIA+ spaces across Canada

Written by Kelly Small RGD, Intents & Purposes Inc.

Context

Places of Pride takes us to sites across Canada that 2SLGBTQIA+ people fought to make their own: places of celebration and freedom to be fully oneself and spaces that nurtured a sense of solidarity that became a catalyst for change. This issue proudly celebrates the spaces and places across the country that in some way shaped the present and can inspire the future. It highlights the resilience, courage and achievements of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities that have contributed to Canada’s ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equality.

Methodology

This deeply co-creative project was completed with thanks to committed collaborators, including illustrator Tim Singleton; the experts and elders who guided the process and kept us grounded in their lived experiences; and the ArQuives, who provided in-depth research into spaces central to queer liberation on Turtle Island and what we now know as Canada.

While the creative direction was largely open, we did work within a few technical design and format constraints—such as required dimensions and specific inclusions on the stamps and Official First Day Covers. Beyond these considerations, our priority was to ensure that the final work depicted a diverse and appropriately representative cross-section of the Queer community.

Process

The project began with a foundation of research. Canada Post and a panel of elders and experts initially identified four key locations, along with a collection of research documents from the 2SLGBTQ+ ArQuives. From there, Tim Singleton—the illustrator I brought on board—and I began exploring visual concepts, stylistic directions and approaches for the stamps, Official First Day Covers and the commemorative booklet.

Our process was highly iterative and deeply collaborative. Tim and I worked closely together, leaning into his vibrant and celebratory illustration style while proposing a range of ideas to both our client and the advisory panel. We navigated important creative questions along the way: Should we focus on past struggles or highlight the liberated present made possible by these spaces?

Ultimately, we chose to centre our storytelling on the historical moments and individuals that shaped these places—honouring the past as a way to illuminate the present and inspire the future.

Results

This project is 10 days into launch and has already seen the Official First Day Covers sold out across the country and requiring a rare reprint. The stamps are selling exceptionally well, currently rivalling last year's top seller. More data to come.