Ryerson University Coat of Arms, Crest and Motto

Thetorch is the symbol of light, education, liberty and increasing knowledge.
Thelamp is the symbol of intelligence giving forth the flame of the spirit within. It is light in the darkness. It is inspiration.
Theset square is the symbol of artifact, construction and building. It represents the practical and material.
Aries, the Ram, rising in the vernal (spring) equinox, and is the symbol of the creative impulse through which the potential becomes the actual. In Astrology, it governs the head and the brain.
Themotto, “Mente et Artificio” translates from Latin as “With Mind and Skill”.
Thecolours areazure (blue), signifying loyalty and truth, andor (gold) signifying generosity and elevation of the Mind.
References
Ryerson Polytechnical Institute. 1972-1973. Faculty Handbook.
Wade, William C. 1898. The symbolisms of heraldry: or, A treatise on the meanings and derivations of armorial bearings.
Special thanks toRyerson University Library and Archives (opens in new window)